AoHal4b interacts with AoAdv-1 governs hyphal fusion, nematode predation ability, and secondary metabolism in Arthrobotrys oligospora

Our study demonstrates AoHal4b as a key pleiotropic regulator in A. oligospora. It orchestrates hyphal fusion and trap morphogenesis through direct interaction with the transcription factor AoAdv-1, and concurrently modulates secondary metabolism and ion homeostasis. These findings provide deep mechanistic insight into the STK-mediated developmental switch governing the carnivorous lifestyle of NT fungi.