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Zearalenone has estrogenic effects on mammals, including humans, and continued low levels of exposure may pose a health risk. The proposed research will focus on understanding the biosynthesis of zearalenone by G. zeae and the relationship between zearalenone production and colonization of stored grain by G. zeae. Specifically, the investigators will isolate the gene encoding the main enzyme, a polyketide synthase, involved in zearalenone production and determine the role of zearalenone in the fungal life cycle.
Zearalenone is a mycotoxin produced by the filamentous fungus, Gibberella zeae, during the colonization of grain including corn, barley and wheat. G. zeae,the head scab fungus, is a devastating pathogen that has caused economic losses across North Dakota, Minnesota and South Dakota that approached one billion dollars in 1993 and from $200-400 million in subsequent years.
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We will isolate and sequence genes expressed during zearalenone biosynthesis and from G. zeae colonizing grain. Through a type of genomics analysis called microarrays, we will identify those genes expressed specifically during colonization and mycotoxin production and those expressed during both processes. These will be used to develop a model for analysis of potential control compounds using this same technology. The genomics approach will expedite analysis of gene expression during these specific stages. An understanding of zearalenone biosynthesis,its relationship to the proliferation of G. zeae, and the genetic mechanisms involved in grain colonization will allow practical means for control of mycotoxins produced by G. zeae.