Trichoderma reesei

What is Trichoderma reesei?

Trichoderma reesei is a species of tubular fungus from the family of crustose fungi. It was originally discovered on the Solomon Islands, where it destroyed US army tents and clothing during the Second World War. The species is the anamorph (asexual form) of the fungus Hypocrea jecorina. Trichoderma reesei has a sexual life cycle that depends on its mating type. The genome of Trichoderma reesei was decoded in 2008.

How does Trichoderma reesei break down cellulose?

Trichoderma reesei can secrete large amounts of cellulase enzymes that can break down cellulose and hemicellulose. Cellulose is a major component of plant biomass and consists of long chains of glucose molecules. Hemicellulose is a similar polysaccharide, but also contains other sugars such as xylose or mannose. The cellulase enzymes of Trichoderma reesei consist of three main types: Endoglucanases, which cut the cellulose chains at random locations, exoglucanases, which cleave off the ends of the cellulose chains, and beta-glucosidases, which release the individual glucose molecules.

What is Trichoderma reesei used for in industry?

Trichoderma reesei is an important microorganism for industry because it can produce cellulase enzymes in large quantities and at low cost. These enzymes have various applications, such as:

• The production of bioethanol from plant biomass. The cellulase enzymes break down the cellulose into glucose, which is then fermented into ethanol by yeasts or bacteria.
• The production of stonewashed jeans. The cellulase enzymes partially dissolve the cotton fibers, giving the jeans a soft and washed-out look.
• Improving feed conversion in animals. The cellulase enzymes can break down the feed and promote the digestion of cellulose.

To increase cellulase production, various strains of Trichoderma reesei have been improved by classical or genetic methods. Some examples are Rut-C30, RL-P37 and MCG-80.

What are the benefits of Trichoderma reesei for dogs?

Trichoderma reesei can have several benefits for dogs when used as a feed supplement. For one, it can improve food utilization by breaking down the cellulose in the food and aiding digestion. This can lead to better health, higher weight and lower food intake. Secondly, it can strengthen the immune system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. This can lead to a lower susceptibility to infections and inflammation.

What are the disadvantages of Trichoderma reesei for dogs?

Trichoderma reesei can also have some disadvantages for dogs if it is administered in too high doses or for too long. Firstly, it can lead to allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, respiratory distress or anaphylaxis. This can occur particularly in dogs that are hypersensitive to fungi. On the other hand, it can lead to an overdose of glucose if the cellulase enzymes convert too much cellulose into glucose. This can lead to an increase in blood glucose levels and stress on the pancreas.