Biotin-binding proteins in the defense of mushrooms against predators and parasites

Appl Environ Microbiol. 2012 Dec;78(23):8485-7. doi: 10.1128/AEM.02286-12. Epub 2012 Sep 21.

Abstract

Tamavidins are fungal biotin-binding proteins (BBPs) displaying antifungal activity against phytopathogens. Here we show high toxicity of tamavidins toward nematodes, insects, and amoebae. As these organisms represent important phyla of fungal predators and parasites, we propose that BBPs are part of the chemical defense system of fungi.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Agaricales / metabolism*
  • Amoeba / drug effects
  • Animals
  • Antibiosis*
  • Carrier Proteins / metabolism*
  • Fungal Proteins / metabolism*
  • Insecta / drug effects
  • Nematoda / drug effects
  • Parasites / drug effects*

Substances

  • Carrier Proteins
  • Fungal Proteins
  • biotin-binding proteins