In vitro resynthesis of lichenization reveals the genetic background of symbiosis-specific fungal-algal interaction in Usnea hakonensis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Symbiosis is central to ecosystems and has been an important driving force of the diversity of life. Close and long-term interactions are known to develop cooperative molecular mechanisms between the symbiotic partners and have often given them new functions as symbiotic entities. In lichen symbiosis, mutualistic relationships between lichen-forming fungi and algae and/or cyanobacteria produce unique features that make lichens adaptive to a wide range of environments. Although the morphological, physiological, and ecological uniqueness of lichens has been described for more than a century, the genetic mechanisms underlying this symbiosis are still poorly known.

Results

This study investigated the fungal-algal interaction specific to the lichen symbiosis using Usne

SUBMITTER: Kono M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7526373 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature