Theonellamide A linked to excess glucan and thicker fission-yeast cell walls

A yeast response to a sponge-derived peptide

Researchers involving Hiroshima University, the University of Tokyo, RIKEN and the University of Salamanca reported a mechanism by which theonellamide A, an antifungal peptide found in marine sponges, causes abnormal cell-wall thickening in fission yeast.

The supplied report does not provide a directly comparable before-and-after measurement or baseline for cell-wall thickness or glucan accumulation.

The reported mechanism connects the abnormal thickening to excess accumulation of 1,3-beta-glucan, a main cell-wall component. It also links the effect to glucan-producing enzymes remaining longer at cell tips and division sites; Cdc42 is presented as a possible participant.

Excess glucan linked to wall thickening

The finding describes a cellular defense response to a marine-derived antifungal peptide. The supplied report does not establish a treatment or practical medical benefit.