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Monomorphic Nonpathogenic Mutants of Ustilago maydis

A D Martínez-Espinoza, C León, G Elizarraraz

    Phytopathology
    |March 1, 1997
    PubMed

    Insights

    Researchers identified conditions to control the dimorphic transition in Ustilago maydis. Mutants unable to form mycelia at low pH were isolated and characterized for growth and pathogenicity.

    Area of Science:

    • Mycology
    • Cell Biology
    • Genetics

    Background:

    • Ustilago maydis exhibits dimorphism, switching between yeast-like and mycelial forms.
    • Environmental factors like pH significantly influence fungal morphogenesis.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the genetic basis of dimorphic transition in Ustilago maydis.
    • To identify and characterize mutants with defects in mycelial development.

    Main Methods:

    • Controlled in vitro conditions by manipulating media pH.
    • Screened for mutants unable to form mycelia at low pH.
    • Characterized mutant morphology, genetics, and pathogenicity.

    Main Results:

    • Low pH (below 5.0) induced mycelial growth; neutral pH induced yeast-like growth.
    • 26 mutants defective in mycelial formation were isolated.
    • Mutations were recessive in 18 strains and affected at least two complementation groups.
    • Pathogenicity correlated with morphogenesis defects.

    Conclusions:

    • pH is a critical regulator of Ustilago maydis dimorphism.
    • Identified mutants provide tools for studying fungal development and pathogenicity.
    • Genetic analysis revealed multiple genes controlling morphogenesis.

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