Functional characterization of LbCDF-A, an ER-localized Zn transporter of the ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccaria bicolor
Mycorrhizal Networks
The mushroom-forming fungi colonizing the roots of oaks, pines, and birches in your local woods act as invisible nutrient brokers — understanding how they regulate metals like zinc explains why some forest trees stay vigorous while others decline.
Laccaria bicolor is a soil fungus that wraps around tree roots and helps trees absorb water and nutrients in exchange for sugars — a partnership called ectomycorrhizae. Researchers found a specific protein in this fungus that sits inside a cellular compartment and moves zinc around within the fungal cells. Keeping zinc balanced is essential for the fungus to stay healthy and continue supporting its tree partners.
Key Findings
LbCDF-A is a zinc transporter localized to the endoplasmic reticulum, not the plasma membrane, distinguishing it functionally from other CDF family members
The protein is expressed in Laccaria bicolor during mycorrhizal symbiosis with host trees, suggesting a role in the zinc homeostasis needed for functional partnerships
Functional complementation assays confirmed LbCDF-A can rescue zinc-sensitive yeast mutants, validating its role as an active zinc transporter
chevron_right Technical Summary
Scientists identified and characterized a zinc transport protein (LbCDF-A) located in the endoplasmic reticulum of Laccaria bicolor, a fungus that forms beneficial partnerships with tree roots. This protein helps the fungus manage zinc levels, which is critical for the health of both the fungus and its host trees.
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