Osmolytes and membrane lipids in the adaptation of micromycete Emericellopsis alkalina to ambient pH and sodium chloride.

The accumulation of low molecular weight cytoprotective compounds (osmolytes) and changes in the membrane lipids composition are of key importance for the adaptation to stress impacts. However, the reason behind the wide variety of osmolytes present in the cell remains unclear. We suggest that specific functions of osmolytes can be revealed by studying the adaptation mechanisms of the mycelial fungus Emericellopsis alkalina (Hypocreales, Ascomycota) that is resistant to both alkaline pH values and high sodium chloride concentrations.

Heat shock response of thermophilic fungi: membrane lipids and soluble carbohydrates under elevated temperatures.

The heat shock (HS) response is an adaptation of organisms to elevated temperature. It includes substantial changes in the composition of cellular membranes, proteins and soluble carbohydrates. To protect the cellular macromolecules, thermophilic organisms have evolved mechanisms of persistent thermotolerance.