UV-induced translation capacity in Fusarium mangiferae

Introduction In fast-growing cells, most RNA molecules encode ribosomal subunits. During growth arrest caused by DNA damage, ribosome biogenesis decreases because it is highly energy-demanding. This was observed in cells from bacteria, yeast, and humans. Results Here, we report that in Fusarium mangiferae , UV radiation significantly induces ribosome levels and translation capacity. This UV-induced response occurs after filament formation. Translation induction modestly but significantly enhances both UV survival and repair. While some mRNAs differentially associated with ribosomes after UV exposure are linked to DNA repair, most belong to modules involved in protein folding and gene expression. TOR signaling is required for the immediate UV induction of ribosome biogenesis genes. However, we provide evidence that UV induces mechanisms that operate upstream of, or in parallel with, TOR. Discussion These findings suggest a novel type of response to DNA damage, in which the primary aim is to protect gene expression from the detrimental effects of UV radiation on transcription.