Tolerance mechanism of Trichoderma asperellum to Pb2+: response changes of related active ingredients under Pb2+ stress

Abstract

Trichoderma asperellum ZZY has good tolerance to Pb²⁺, but the tolerance mechanism is not clear. The manuscript aimed to clarify the tolerance mechanism from the perspective of the response changes of related active ingredients. The synthesis of polysaccharides, proteins and thiol compounds in Trichoderma asperellum can be accelerated with Pb²⁺ stress. Under Pb²⁺ stress, Trichoderma asperellum can synthesize oxalic acid and secrete it extracellularly. In addition, high concentration of Pb²⁺ can inhibit the synthesis and extracellular secretion of formic acid and malic acid. The tolerance of Trichoderma asperellum to Pb²⁺ is the results of multiple reactions. The Pb²⁺ can promote the synthesis of polysaccharides, proteins, thiol compounds and oxalic acid. In the early stage of Pb²⁺ stress, Trichoderma asperellum can rapidly initiate an extracellular emergency mechanism, synthesize oxalic acid in mycelia and secrete it extracellularly to remove free Pb²⁺ and alleviate the toxicity of Pb²⁺ to cells. With the transport of Pb²⁺ into cells, it can promote the synthesis of polysaccharides, proteins, thiol compounds to adsorb and transform the Pb²⁺ and ease the damage to the cells. The manuscript provides theoretical support and scientific explanation for the application of Trichoderma asperellum.