MADS-Box Transcription Factors Regulate Dimorphic Transition and Temperature Adaptation in the Pathogenic Fungus Talaromyces marneffei [RNA-Seq]

ABSTRACT: The dynamic transition between yeast and hyphal forms is a crucial adaptive mechanism for many human pathogenic fungi, including Talaromyces marneffei, a thermodimorphic fungus responsible for causing fatal talaromycosis globally. This study aimed to uncover the genetic mechanisms underlying the dimorphic transition in T. marneffei, focusing on the MADS-box transcription factor family. Using adaptive laboratory evolution, we identified MADS-box genes enriched in dimorphism-defective mutants, revealing a notable expansion of this gene family in T. marneffei. Phylogenetic analysis and functional genetic manipulations confirmed the involvement of mads9, mads10, and mads13 in regulating the yeast-hypha transition. Integrating RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq), we demonstrated that these transcription factors target genes involved in transmembrane transport, redox processes, and cellulose binding. Our findings not only clarify the role and regulatory mechanisms of the MADS-box family in dimorphic transitions but also present a valuable strategy for identifying regulatory genes based on morphological variations and high-throughput sequencing, paving the way for further systematic genetic studies of fungal temperature adaptation.

ORGANISM(S): Talaromyces marneffei

PROVIDER: GSE279913 | GEO | 2025/05/21

REPOSITORIES: GEO