Fungal holobionts as blueprints for synthetic endosymbiotic systems

by Laila P. Partida-Martínez

Rhizopus microsporus is an example of a fungal holobiont. Strains of this species can harbor bacterial and viral endosymbionts inherited by the next generation. These microbial allies increase pathogenicity and defense and control asexual and sexual reproduction. Rhizopus microsporus is an example of a fungal holobiont, harboring bacterial and viral endosymbionts. This Perspective article discusses how these microbial allies increase pathogenicity and defense and control asexual and sexual reproduction in the fungus.