Scientists identify fungal protein that helps break down complex sugars
Researchers published a study on September 1 in PLOS Biology describing how the fungus Rhodotorula toruloides uses a specific protein to process nutrients.
New mechanism discovered in single-celled fungus
The study identified a transcription factor named Cbr1 within the organism Rhodotorula toruloides. This protein turns genes on and off to control which ones are expressed. It activates genes that help break down complex sugars into glucose for food.
Process bypasses negative feedback loop
The mechanism allows the fungus to use complex sugars without repression from a negative feedback loop. Understanding this process helps scientists learn how fungi cycle nutrients in the environment. These insights also provide targets for treating diseases caused by pathogenic fungi.
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