Researchers at New York University discovered a critical factor that determines the growth and shape of fungi, providing valuable insights into the mechanisms behind their remarkable expansion. This discovery could potentially revolutionize our understanding of fungi’s role in various ecosystems and industries.
Fungi exhibit polarized growth, meaning that growth occurs in the apical zone, coinciding with a strong gradient of cell wall material deposition towards the tip. This mechanism allows them to respond quickly to changing environmental conditions, making it crucial for their survival and success in diverse habitats.
The newly discovered tipping point appears to play a significant role in determining when and how fungi switch between yeast and hyphal stages, a phenomenon known as dimorphism.