Mapping 3-hydroxy oxylipins on ascospores of Eremothecium sinecaudum

3-Hydroxy oxylipins were uncovered on ascospores of Eremothecium sinecaudum using immunofluorescence microscopy. This was confirmed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. These oxylipins were observed only on ascospore parts characterised by nano-scale surface ornamentations simulating a corkscrew as demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy. Conventional ascospore staining further confirms its hydrophobic nature. Using confocal laser scanning microscopy we found that the corkscrew part with spiky tip of needle-shaped ascospores may play a role in rupturing the ascus in order to affect its release. Through oxylipin inhibition studies we hypothesise a possible role for 3-hydroxy oxylipins in facilitating the rupturing process.