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Nickel resistance mechanisms in yeasts and other fungi
1Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan.
Abstract:
This review describes nickel toxicity and nickel resistance mechanisms in fungi. Nickel toxicity in fungi is influenced by environmental factors such as pH, temperature and the existence of organic matter and other ions. We describe resistance mechanisms in nickel-resistant mutants of yeasts and filamentous fungi which were obtained by exposure to a mutagen or by successive culture in media containing increasing concentrations of nickel ion. Nickel resistance may involve: (1) inactivation of nickel toxicity by the production of extracellular nickel-chelating substances such as glutathione; (2) reduced nickel accumulation, probably by modification of a magnesium transport system; (3) sequestration of nickel into a vacuole associated with free histidine and involving Ni-insensitivity of vacuolar membrane H(+)-ATPase.
Insights
Fungi can develop nickel resistance through various mechanisms, including chelating substances and altered transport systems. These nickel resistance strategies are crucial for fungal survival in nickel-contaminated environments.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Environmental Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nickel toxicity poses a significant challenge for fungal life.
- Environmental factors like pH and temperature modulate nickel toxicity in fungi.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review nickel toxicity and resistance mechanisms in fungi.
- To describe how fungi develop resistance to nickel.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of nickel-resistant mutants in yeasts and filamentous fungi.
- Investigation of resistance mechanisms through genetic and biochemical approaches.
Main Results:
- Nickel resistance mechanisms include extracellular chelation (e.g., glutathione), reduced nickel uptake (magnesium transport modification), and vacuolar sequestration.
- Vacuolar sequestration involves free histidine and nickel-insensitive vacuolar H(+)-ATPase.
Conclusions:
- Fungi employ diverse strategies to counteract nickel toxicity.
- Understanding these nickel resistance mechanisms is vital for environmental and biotechnological applications.