Zfp1, a putative Zn(II)2Cys6 transcription factor, influences Ustilago maydis pathogenesis at multiple stages. (4th June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cheung, H. Y. Kitty; Donaldson, Michael E.; Storfie, Emilee R. M.; Spence, Kelsey L.; Fetsch, Jessie L. O.; Harrison, Makayla C.; Saville, Barry J.
• Is Part Of: Plant pathology. Volume 70:Number 7(2021)
• Page Start: 1626
• Page End: 1639
• Publication Date: 2021-06-04
• Subjects: pathogenesis -- smut fungi -- transcription factor -- Ustilago maydis -- Zea mays -- zinc finger protein; Agricultural pests -- Periodicals; Plant diseases -- Periodicals; 632
• DOI: 10.1111/ppa.13398
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-0862

Abstract

Abstract: As a biotrophic fungus, Ustilago maydis, the causal agent of common smut of maize, must establish and maintain a relationship with the host throughout the pathogenic cycle. Functional characterization of the U . maydis transcription factor Zfp1 suggests a role in modulating pathogenic development. Deletion of zfp1 resulted in attenuated pathogenic hyphal growth, reduced infection frequency, arrested disease symptom development, and decreased anthocyanin production. Complementation with Zfp1 constructs lacking conserved domains indicated it may function with and without DNA binding and suggests a role for the Fungal_trans domain in enabling full virulence. RNA‐sequencing revealed the transcription of approximately 30% of U . maydis genes, including those encoding predicted and confirmed effectors, were altered in the zfp1 deletion strain during pathogenic growth. Together, the results suggest that Zfp1 is a Zn(II)2 Cys6 transcription factor that is required for the full induction of infection, anthocyanin production, and virulence. Abstract : zfp1 deletion changed transcript levels of Ustilago maydis genes, including effectors, and Zea mays genes. It also reduced anthocyanin production, infection rate, and disease progression.