Transcription factors Fst8, Ftr3 and Gat1 are regulators of the immune system of the mushroom Schizophyllum commune.

Summary: Mushrooms have an immune system to fight off attackers, just like we do! Scientists studied a mushroom called Schizophyllum commune to see how it defends itself against harmful molds. They found three "master switches" (called Fst8, Ftr3, and Gat1) that turn on the mushroom's defenses. When these switches were removed, the mushroom couldn't fight back as well. By looking closely, researchers discovered that these switches control 18 specific defense tools, like armor builders and poison neutralizers. This helps us understand how mushrooms survive in the wild.