Cytochrome P450 Monooxygenase-Mediated Metabolic Utilization of Benzo[ <i>a</i> ]Pyrene by <i>Aspergillus</i> Species

Soil-dwelling fungal species possess the versatile metabolic capability to degrade complex organic compounds that are toxic to humans, yet the mechanisms they employ remain largely unknown. Benzo[<i>a</i>]pyrene (BaP) is a pervasive carcinogenic contaminant, posing a significant concern for human health. Here, we report that several <i>Aspergillus</i> species are capable of degrading BaP. Exposing <i>Aspergillus nidulans</i> cells to BaP results in transcriptomic and metabolic changes associated with cellular growth and energy generation, implying that the fungus utilizes BaP as a growth substrate. Importantly, we identify and characterize the conserved <i>bapA</i> gene encoding a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase that is necessary for the metabolic utilization of BaP in <i>Aspergillus</i> We further demonstrate that the fungal NF-κB-type <i>velvet</i> regulators VeA and VelB are required for proper expression of <i>bapA</i> in response to nutrient limitation and BaP degradation in <i>A. nidulans</i> Our study illuminates fundamental knowledge of fungal BaP metabolism and provides novel insights into enhancing bioremediation potential.<b>IMPORTANCE</b> We are increasingly exposed to environmental pollutants, including the carcinogen benzo[<i>a</i>]pyrene (BaP), which has prompted extensive research into human metabolism of toxicants. However, little is known about metabolic mechanisms employed by fungi that are able to use some toxic pollutants as the substrates for growth, leaving innocuous by-products. This study systemically demonstrates that a common soil-dwelling fungus is able to use benzo[<i>a</i>]pyrene as food, which results in expression and metabolic changes associated with growth and energy generation. Importantly, this study reveals key components of the metabolic utilization of BaP, notably a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase and the fungal NF-κB-type transcriptional regulators. Our study advances fundamental knowledge of fungal BaP metabolism and provides novel insight into designing and implementing enhanced bioremediation strategies.