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Genetic Manipulations in Dermatophytes
Mohamed Mahdi Alshahni1, Tsuyoshi Yamada2
1Laboratory of Space and Environmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Teikyo University, 2-11-1, Kaga, Itabashi, Tokyo, 173-8605, Japan.
Abstract:
Dermatophytes are a group of closely related fungi that nourish on keratinized materials for their survival. They infect stratum corneum, nails, and hair of human and animals, accounting the largest portion of fungi causing superficial mycoses. Huge populations are suffering from dermatophytoses, though the biology of these fungi is largely unknown yet. Reasons are partially attributed to the poor amenability of dermatophytes to genetic manipulation. However, advancements in this field over the last decade made it possible to conduct genetic studies to satisfying extents. These included genetic transformation methods, indispensable molecular tools, i.e., dominant selectable markers, inducible promoter, and marker recycling system, along with improving homologous recombination frequency and gene silencing. Furthermore, annotated genome sequences of several dermatophytic species have recently been available, ensuring an optimal recruitment of the molecular tools to expand our knowledge on these fungi. In conclusion, the establishment of basic molecular tools and the availability of genomic data will open a new era that might change our understanding on the biology and pathogenicity of this fungal group.
Insights
Advancements in genetic tools and genomic data for dermatophytes (fungi causing skin infections) enable new research into their biology and pathogenicity. This opens a new era for understanding these common superficial mycoses.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Molecular Biology
- Fungal Genetics
Background:
- Dermatophytes are fungi that cause superficial mycoses by consuming keratin.
- Despite their prevalence, dermatophyte biology and pathogenicity remain poorly understood.
- Limited genetic manipulation capabilities have historically hindered research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in molecular tools for dermatophyte research.
- To highlight the impact of newly available genomic data.
- To discuss the potential for future biological and pathogenicity studies.
Main Methods:
- Development of genetic transformation techniques.
- Implementation of molecular tools like selectable markers and inducible promoters.
- Advancements in gene silencing and homologous recombination.
- Availability of annotated genome sequences for key dermatophyte species.
Main Results:
- Established genetic transformation methods for dermatophytes.
- Created essential molecular tools for genetic studies.
- Improved gene silencing and recombination efficiencies.
- Released annotated genomes for multiple dermatophyte species.
Conclusions:
- The development of basic molecular tools and genomic data is crucial.
- These advancements facilitate expanded research into dermatophyte biology.
- A new era of understanding dermatophyte pathogenicity is emerging.
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