FIG 8.

Schematic view of the HapX-mediated homeostasis of fatty acid/phospholipids in B. bassiana conidia. HapX functions as a transcription factor of the Δ9-fatty acid desaturase gene (Ole1). Ole1 converts stearic acid into oleic acid, which could be further catalyzed into linoleic acid. Both unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) act as the hydrophobic chains of phospholipids, which are essential for the integrity and functionality of the cytomembrane. The HapX-Ole1 pathway plays an important role in maintaining the UFA flux required for conidial reserves and membrane functionality. R, polar group.