Prof. Dr. Johannes Wöstemeyer
Sexual and parasitic interactions in Mucor-like fungi: Regulation of genes for the communication molecule trisporic acid

Abstract:
In Mucor-like fungi (Zygomycetes), derivates of the carotene cleavage product trisporic acid are general mediators of mating reactions. The same class of molecules is used by the biotrophic fusion parasite, Parasitella parasitica, for recognition of its numerous hosts. Two of the genes leading from carotene to trisporic acid are known at the molecular level. The project is dedicated to the regulatory mechanisms of these genes, TSP1 and TSP2, which code for dehydrogenase reactions. Both reactions are specific for minus mating types of the fungi. Cloning of additional genes is in progress.
Experiments will be performed at transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels, especially in interactions between Parasitella parasitica and one of its hosts, Mucor mucedo. We will also be able to employ a number of triporoid analogues for in situ localisation studies of the enzymes. These substances have been synthesised by our co-operators in the group of Prof. Boland at MPI-CE. By comparing gene expression in sexual and parasitic interactions, the project will shed light on putative common roots of sexuality and fusion parasitism in a biotechnically important fungal group.
Understanding the infection mechanism of Parasitella parasitica at the molecular level will, in the long run, provide biotechnologists and geneticists with an important tool for transferring genes from Parasitella parasitica to its hosts simply by infection. This system will provide an interesting alternative to mating, which is very difficult to employ for strain improvement in zygomycetes.

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