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Genomes to dynamic decay communities: Understanding fungal interactions during early decomposition events in natural lignocellulosic substrate


EMSL Project ID
49027

Abstract

Understanding the microbial decomposition of lignocellulose and its contribution to global carbon cycling requires realistic model systems that go beyond in silico and single culture analyses. Fungal decay of lignocellulosic substrates evolved in competitive microbial environments. To truly understand the evolution and function of complex enzymatic decay systems, genetic and biochemical data are needed from controlled competitive interactions. Natural decomposition involves a succession of interacting microbes exhibiting varying degrees of competitive and decay ability. In this proposal we will target agaicomycete and ascomycete primary decay species which initiate natural decomposition and, by altering the woody substrate, influence the microbial decay communities that will follow. This multidisciplinary approach will involve genome sequencing underrepresented ecologically important species, and the detailed analysis and charactrization of interacting mycelia in 3 dimensional wood-based microcosms using transcriptomic, proteomic, mass spectroscopy and fluorescence microscopy. The data generated by this study will give unparalleled insights into how microbial decay communities develop, interact and bring about substrate decomposition. Key processes and changes to substrate will be identified and models will be developed to consider the evolutionary pressures that produced the diverse chemistry and enzyme mechanisms associated with fungal wood decay.

Project Details

Project type
FICUS Research
Start Date
2015-10-01
End Date
2017-09-30
Status
Closed

Team

Principal Investigator

Dan Eastwood
Institution
Swansea University

Co-Investigator(s)

Miia Makela
Institution
University of Helsinki

Team Members

Jade O'Leary
Institution
Cardiff University

Lynne Boddy
Institution
Cardiff University

Jonathan Schilling
Institution
University of Minnesota

Kristiina Hilden
Institution
University of Helsinki

Ronald de Vries
Institution
Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute