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Thaldh3-Dependent GABA Metabolism Modulates Response of Trichoderma to Fusaric Acid-Induced Oxidative Stress
Linhua Cao1,2, Xiaoteng Shi1,2, Tuo Li1,2
1Key Lab of Organic-Based Fertilizers of China and Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab for Solid Organic Waste Utilization, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
Abstract:
Fusaric acid (FSA) is a mycotoxin produced by pathogenic Fusarium species that inhibits the growth of various beneficial microbes. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms by which Trichoderma harzianum NJAU4742 (Th), a beneficial fungus, responds to FSA-induced stress. Here, by combining a transcriptome analysis, a gene knockout, and physiological data measurements, our study investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the response of Trichoderma harzianum NJAU4742 (Th) to FSA stress. The results showed that FSA can induce severe oxidative stress in Th, and an aldehyde dehydrogenase (Thaldh3) in Th plays a critical role in alleviating FSA stress. Deleting Thaldh3 significantly decreased the γ-aminobutyrate (GABA) content, causing more severe oxidative damage in Th. Furthermore, we also provide evidence demonstrating that Thaldh3 alleviates FSA stress by enhancing the activities of key enzymes involved in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and ATP content. A pot experiment showed that an enhanced tolerance to FSA increased the Th biomass, strengthening its antagonistic capacity against pathogens and reducing the disease index in tomatoes. In conclusion, these observations provide new insight into the role of beneficial microbes in promoting plant health.
Insights
Trichoderma harzianum NJAU4742 uses aldehyde dehydrogenase (Thaldh3) to combat fusaric acid (FSA) stress. This enhances its growth and disease-fighting abilities, promoting plant health.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Plant Pathology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Fusaric acid (FSA) is a mycotoxin from pathogenic Fusarium species.
- FSA inhibits beneficial microbes, impacting plant health.
- Trichoderma harzianum is a beneficial fungus with potential agricultural applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the molecular mechanisms of Trichoderma harzianum's response to FSA stress.
- Identify key genes and pathways involved in FSA tolerance.
- Evaluate the impact of FSA tolerance on the fungus's beneficial properties.
Main Methods:
- Transcriptome analysis to identify differentially expressed genes.
- Gene knockout experiments to determine gene function (Thaldh3).
- Physiological measurements of oxidative stress and enzyme activity.
- Pot experiments to assess plant health and disease resistance.
Main Results:
- FSA induces significant oxidative stress in Trichoderma harzianum.
- Aldehyde dehydrogenase (Thaldh3) is crucial for alleviating FSA-induced stress.
- Thaldh3 deletion reduces gamma-aminobutyrate (GABA) content and increases oxidative damage.
- Thaldh3 enhances tricarboxylic acid cycle enzyme activity and ATP content.
- Enhanced FSA tolerance increases fungal biomass and antagonistic capacity against pathogens.
Conclusions:
- Thaldh3 plays a critical role in mediating Trichoderma harzianum's tolerance to FSA.
- Enhanced FSA tolerance improves the fungus's ability to protect plants from pathogens.
- These findings highlight the importance of beneficial microbes in plant health and disease management.
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