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Reprogramming Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts with Transcription Factors to Induce a Hemogenic Program
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Transcripts and tumors: regulatory and metabolic programming during biotrophic phytopathogenesis.
Lara Schmitz1, Sean McCotter2, Matthias Kretschmer2
1Institute for Microbiology and Genetics, Department of Molecular Microbiology and Genetics, Georg-August-University-Göttingen, Göttingen, Lower Saxony, D-37077, Germany.
F1000Research
|December 7, 2018
Summary
Recent transcriptome studies reveal how the biotrophic plant pathogen Ustilago maydis adapts to its maize host. This research illuminates gene expression, nutrient acquisition, and the transcription factor network driving fungal invasion and sporulation.
Area of Science:
- Plant Pathology
- Mycology
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Biotrophic fungal pathogens require environmental sensing and adaptation for life cycle completion.
- Ustilago maydis is a biotrophic pathogen that infects maize, causing significant agricultural impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying Ustilago maydis infection in maize using transcriptome analysis.
- To understand the pathogen's adaptation strategies, including gene expression, effector deployment, and nutrient acquisition.
Main Methods:
- Transcriptome sequencing of Ustilago maydis during maize infection at various stages.
- Analysis of gene expression patterns, transcription factor networks, and metabolic remodeling.
Main Results:
- Identified an ordered program of gene expression changes during Ustilago maydis infection.
- Revealed the complexity of the transcription factor network controlling fungal invasion, proliferation, and sporulation.
- Uncovered metabolic remodeling in both host and pathogen during tumor formation, supporting spore production.
Conclusions:
- Transcriptome data provide deep insights into the biotrophic adaptation of Ustilago maydis.
- Comparative transcriptome studies across smut species offer avenues for understanding broader biotrophic adaptation strategies.
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