The Transcription Factor StuA Regulates Oxidative Stress-Responsive Genes in Trichophyton rubrum

Author(s)

Petrucelli, Monise Fazolin ; Martins-Santana, Leonardo ; Oliveira, Vanderci M. ; Sanches, Pablo R. ; Rossi, Antonio ; Martinez-Rossi, Nilce M.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES; v. 25, n. 23, p. 16-pg., 2024-12-01.

Abstract

Fungi can remarkably sense and adapt to various extracellular stimuli and stress conditions. Oxidative stress, which results from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species production and antioxidant defenses, leads to cellular damage and death. In Trichophyton rubrum, oxidative stress is managed by a complex antioxidant system, including thioredoxins, glutathione, catalases, peroxidases, and superoxide dismutase, with glutathione playing a crucial role. The fungus also responds to oxidative stress through critical pathways such as the glycerol high-osmolarity pathway, activator protein 1 transcription factor, and responsive regulator SKN7. To better understand the role of the transcription factor StuA in regulating oxidative stress-related genes within these pathways, we conducted gene expression studies in Delta stuA mutant and wild-type strains of T. rubrum cultivated in keratin and under oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide. Our results revealed significant downregulation of essential antioxidant genes, including glutathione transferases and catalases, in the Delta stuA mutant. Moreover, catalase and glutathione S-transferase activities were impaired in the mutants under stress conditions, highlighting the impact of this mutation. These findings underscore the critical role of StuA in the oxidative stress response and fungal pathogenesis and provide new insights into T. rubrum's adaptive mechanisms. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/10359-2 - Comparative systematic analysis of transcriptomes in the elucidation of potential antifungal targets
• Grantee: Monise Fazolin Petrucelli
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 19/22596-9 - Molecular mechanisms associated with pathogenicity and resistance in fungi: strategies for treating dermatophytosis
• Grantee: Nilce Maria Martinez-Rossi
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 21/10255-2 - Transcription factors and cell signaling pathways in pathogenicity and modulation of immune response
• Grantee: Leonardo Martins Santana
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral