MATE FUNGUS, MAKE BIOFUELS

Scientists Force Fungus to Have Sex to Create Biofuel
Bryan Nelson, August 11, 2009 (Cleantechnica via Reuters)

"Originally discovered in the Solomon Islands during World War II eating away at the canvas and garments of the U.S. Army, scientists have long known that the soil fungus Trichoderma reesei was particularly good at converting cellulose- a major component of plant biomass- into glucose. But…the fungus because it was believed to be asexual.

"…Under the assumption that Trichoderma reesei was asexual, scientists looking to improve the fungus [could selectively breed them] and were instead limited to techniques like dosing the fungus with radiation or chemicals in order to alter its genetic profile. But that process only created random or unpredictable mutations…But…scientists can now make the fungus have sex."

Trichoderma reesei, getting some at last. (click to enlarge)

"…Trichoderma reesei is genetically identical to another species of fungus, Hypocrea jecorina, which it so happens is capable of sexual reproduction…Hypocrea jecorina seemed capable of assuming both the male and female roles, whereas Trichoderma reesei seemed only capable of assuming the male role."

Could Trichoderma reesei be the key that unlocks the dream? (click to enlarge)

"…Why not breed the male-oriented Trichoderma with a female-oriented Hypocrea? [Scientists thought.] The result was a successful mating- the Trichoderma lured into having sex could now be artificially selected for their advantageous genetic traits.

"The findings could have largescale ramifications. Researchers want to employ the organisms to make use of the otherwise useless cellulose in sawdust, weeds and other plant scrap to make biofuel. Thus, the primary benefit of fungus sex could be to turn bush into biofuel…"