Fusarium graminearum macroconidia
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation is a reversible posttranscriptional modification that regulates RNA function and plays a crucial role in diverse developmental processes. This study addresses the knowledge gap regarding phyletic distribution and functions of m6A factors in fungi. The identification of copy number variations among fungal groups enriches our knowledge regarding the evolution of m6A machinery in fungi. Functional characterization of m6A factors in a phytopathogenic filamentous fungus Fusarium graminearum provides insights into the essential role of the m6A writer MTA1 in codnidial germination and hyphal branching. The observed effects of overexpressing MTA1 on fungal growth and gene expression patterns of m6A factors throughout the life cycle of F. graminearum further underscore the importance of m6A modification in conidial germination. Overall, this study significantly advances our understanding of m6A modification in fungi, paving the way for future research into its roles in filamentous growth and potential applications in disease control.