Vesicles as mRNA Couriers in the Cell

In a recent EMBO Reports article, Melissa and colleagues highlight vesicle-coupled mRNA transport as a key mechanism of intracellular communication. They describe how mRNAs associate with membrane-bound organelles and are locally translated, enabling precise spatial control of gene expression. This emerging concept reshapes our understanding of how organelles coordinate their functions to maintain cellular homeostasis.

Read more here.

How does a fungal pathogen know it's inside the host?

We’re excited to share our latest findings on how the maize pathogen Ustilago maydis senses when it has entered its plant host. In this study, we discovered a new GPCR-based system that links host protease activity to fungal signaling, allowing the pathogen to recognize the host environment and trigger infection-related responses. This work, led by Gabriel and Philip, uncovers the Gpe1–Pit2 system as a key example of how fungi translate host-derived cues into developmental decisions during infection.

Read the preprint here

We’re thrilled to share our latest article in PLOS Pathogens: 

"The rise of fungal G-protein coupled receptors in pathogenesis and symbiosis"

This work highlights the latest insights into GPCRs in fungi, revealing how these versatile receptors contribute to both pathogenic and symbiotic interactions. We explore their evolution, signaling mechanisms, and emerging roles across diverse fungal lifestyles.

Read the full article here

New insights into unconventional secretion by Sanchi et al.

Our new study by Sanchi et al. uncovers how the fungal protein Jps1 directs unconventional secretion by binding specific membrane lipids. Sanchi and team show that Jps1’s interaction with PI(4,5)P₂ is essential for exporting the chitinase Cts1 during cell division. This work highlights a novel lipid-based mechanism in non-classical secretion pathways, with potential relevance across fungi and higher organisms. Read the full story here