Web design by Martin Kostovcik, 2010
Improving determinations tools in Aspergillus
Evolution and ecology of white nose syndrome fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans
Pseudogymnoascus destructans [formerly Geomyces destructans] is a slow growing psychrophilic fungus pathogenic to insectivorous hibernating bats. Emergence of this novel fungal pathogen in eastern North America has become a threat to bat diversity of major conservation concern owing to the geographic spread of the epidemic called white-nose syndrome (WNS) since 2006 and the associated decline in affected bat populations. The same fungus is common in Europe, causes skin erosion but is not lethal to local bat species. In our laboratory, we are studying mechanisms of pathogenicity and secondary metabolites of P. destructans. We are also studding genetic variability of European isolates and testing their physiological abilities (response to various temperatures, UV radiation, desiccation etc., profile of extracellular enzymes). Our aim is to trace characteristic responsible for unique ecology of P. desctructans by comparison with related, non-parasitic Pseudogymnoascus spp. the secondary aim is to describe diversity of fungi and bacteria living in association with P. desctructans.
