Ophiocordyceps sinensis-induced changes in Thitarodes xiaojinensis: from intestinal barrier destruction, microbiome dysbiosis to immune responses at the molecular level.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) Ophiocordyceps sinensis has a long-term coexistence with its host insect, Thitarodes xiaojinensis, making it a unique model for host-pathogen interactions. Hemolymph, a critical component in insects, plays an essential role in maintaining both nutritional and immune homeostasis. However, the mechanism of the host's immune response remains unclear when O. sinensis proliferates in the hemolymph.

Results

O. sinensis caused damage to the insect's intestinal barrier, facilitating the translocation of gut bacteria into the hemocoel. Subsequently, the presence of O. sinensis and opportunistic pathogenic bacteria from the gut disrupted the homeostasis of the hemolymph microbiota, resulting in an increase in bacterial diversity. This disru

SUBMITTER: Bao XW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12220380 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature