Abstract Detail

Mycology & Phycology

Beck, Zackariah [1], Oetken, Emma [1], Roehrs, Zachary [1], Martin, Gavin [1], Harrington, Sean [2], Wangeline, Ami [3].

First look at Selenium-Induced Differential Transcriptomes in Alternaria astragali.

Selenium (Se) is a known essential micronutrient for animals and bacteria, but not plants or fungi which can show toxicity at naturally occurring concentrations. Some plants, called Se hyperaccumulators, can accumulate Se in their tissues resulting in an elemental defense against herbivory and pathogens. Despite the elucidation of Se metabolism in these plants, it is not well understood how their associated selenotolerant fungi are also able to circumvent Se toxicity. The fungus Alternaria astragali was isolated from the rhizosphere of the Se hyperaccumulator Astragalus bisulcatus, and exhibits selenophilic metabolism. This study evaluates transcriptomes produced by culturing A. astragali with various bioavailable forms of Se at differing concentrations. Initial analyses suggest that A. astragali is using potentially unknown metabolic processes and proteins in the presence of Se. We present various data showing examination of the top expression change proteins, explicit comparison with known pathways, and plans for next steps to further gain understanding of these novel metabolic pathways.

1 - Laramie County Community College, Biology, 1400 E. College Drive, Cheyenne, WY, 82007, USA
2 - University of Wyoming, Molecular Biology, 1000 E. University Ave., Laramie, WY, 82071, USA
3 - Laramie County Community College, 1400 E. College Drive, Biology, 1400 E. College Drive, Biology, Cheyenne, WY, 82007, United States

Keywords:
Selenium
Alternaria
Astragalus
Transriptome
Hyperaccumulation
Elemental defense.

Presentation Type: Poster
Number: PMP001
Abstract ID:645
Candidate for Awards:Phytochemical Best Poster Award