Magnesium represses trichothecene biosynthesis and modulates Tri5, Tri6, and Tri12 genes expression in Fusarium graminearum.

Growth and production of type-B trichothecenes mycotoxins by the Fusarium graminearum strain CBS 185.32 were compared in GYEP medium supplemented with Mg(2+) at different concentrations (0-4 mM). Mg(2+) led to a strong decrease in toxin accumulation without affecting the mycelial growth, suggesting a specific Mg(2+) effect on fungal secondary metabolism. Expression of Tri5, Tri6, and Tri12 genes was followed throughout the time courses of type-B trichothecenes (TCTB) yield in standard and 2 mM Mg(2+)-supplemented GYEP media. Mg(2+) addition significantly decreased Tri5, Tri6, and Tri12 expression. The inhibition of toxin production by Mg(2+ )was shown to be highly correlated with inhibition of Tri5 transcription and, to a lesser extend, of Tri6 and Tri12. This is the first report of a transcriptional control of TCTB production by Mg(2+).