Open access publications in the SLU publication database

Abstract

Aegerolysins are small secreted pore-forming proteins that are found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The role of aegerolysins in sporulation, fruit body formation, and in lysis of cellular membrane is suggested in fungi. The aim of the present study was to characterize the biological function of the aegerolysin geneagl1in the mycoparasitic fungusTrichoderma atroviride, used for biological control of plant diseases. Gene expression analysis showed higher expression ofagl1during conidiation and during growth in medium supplemented with cell wall material from the plant pathogenic fungusRhizoctonia solanias the sole carbon source. Expression ofagl1was supressed under iron-limiting condition, whileagl1transcript was not detected duringT.atrovirideinteractions with the prey fungiBotrytis cinereaorR.solani. Phenotypic analysis ofagl1deletion strains (Delta agl1) showed reduced conidiation compared toT.atroviridewild type, thus suggesting the involvement of AGL1 in conidiation. Furthermore, the Delta agl1strains display reduced antagonism towardsB. cinereaandR.solanibased on a secretion assay, although no difference was detected during direct interactions. These data demonstrate the role of AGL1 in conidiation and antagonism in the mycoparasitic fungusT.atroviride.