A study, led by Dr Xin Zhou, Prof. Sybren de Hoog (Radboud UMC Center of Expertise for Mycology, Netherlands), and Prof. Peiying Feng (Sun Yat-Sen University, China), revealed that while M. canis, M. audouinii, and M. ferrugineum share a high degree of genetic similarity, human-adapted strains exhibited specific expansions in gene families, such as Major Facilitator Superfamily (MFS) transporters and Zn2Cys6 transcription factors. These gene expansions may enhance the fungus’s ability to thrive in the human skin environment.
Genetic diversity and functional studies identified 12 key genes, including proteases (e.g., SUB1, SUB7, PRB1) and chitinases (e.g., Arb2, MCYG_06206). These genes play crucial roles in keratin degradation, immune evasion, and environmental adaptation. For example, the expression of subtilisins (SUB1-SUB3) of anthropophilic species increased significantly under acidic conditions, such as those found on human skin. In addition, lipid-rich environments further stimulated keratinase activity, suggesting that these factors drive host-specific adaptations in human-derived M. canis strains.
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“We observed remarkable molecular adaptations that support the ecological transition of M. canis,” says Dr Xin Zhou. “These findings provide a strong basis for understanding the genetic and functional mechanisms underlying this host shift.”
Evolutionary adaptation of dermatophytes
Further analyses revealed that carbohydrate metabolism genes, including those involved in chitin-binding and degradation, have undergone significant expansion in M. canis. These genes may enable the fungus to evade host immune responses by masking fungal cell wall components. Comparative genomic studies also showed that lineage-specific differences in gene duplication events correlate with ecological and physiological adaptations across host types.
“This research highlights the intricate evolutionary dynamics of dermatophytes and their ability to adapt to new hosts,” Dr Xin Zhou explains. “It opens up new avenues for developing targeted antifungal therapies.”
The study, published in Mycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology, underscores the importance of understanding dermatophytes evolution and host-pathogen interactions, providing a framework for future research into dermatophytes pathogenicity and therapeutic interventions.
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