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Population Genomic Analysis Uncovers Environmental Stress-Driven Selection and Adaptation of Lentinula edodes Population in China

Summary

This research examined the genetic differences between wild and cultivated shiitake mushrooms in China to understand how they adapted to different environments. The study has important implications for everyday life: • Helps improve mushroom cultivation techniques for better crop yields and quality • Provides insights into developing more resilient mushroom strains that can adapt to different growing conditions • Could lead to more efficient use of agricultural and forest waste through better mushroom production • May result in new shiitake varieties with enhanced nutritional or medicinal properties • Contributes to sustainable agriculture by understanding how fungi adapt to environmental stresses

Background

Lentinula edodes (shiitake mushroom) is one of the most popular edible mushrooms worldwide, especially in East Asia. It was first cultivated in China over 800 years ago and helps alleviate environmental impacts by biodegrading forest and agricultural wastes. Despite its long history of cultivation, little is known about its domestication history in China or the genetic relationship between wild and cultivated strains.

Objective

The study aimed to: 1) clarify the genetic diversity and population structure of wild and cultivated strains of Chinese L. edodes; 2) elucidate the genetic relationship and differentiation between wild and cultivated strains; and 3) investigate the domestication process of Chinese L. edodes using methods of population genomics.

Results

The study revealed three distinct genetic groups in the Chinese L. edodes population. Most cultivated strains clustered with six wild strains in Group I, while Groups II and III consisted mainly of wild strains. The cultivated strains showed lower genetic diversity compared to wild strains. Eighty-four candidate genes contributing to population divergence were detected, with 18 involved in stress response. Group-specific variations showed enrichment in stress response processes for cultivated strains and methylation processes for wild strains.

Conclusion

The study found that Chinese L. edodes cultivars belong to two distinct genetic backgrounds different from most wild strains tested. Population divergence appears driven by environmental stresses, particularly temperature. The research demonstrated potential for improving cultivars by incorporating genetic resources from wild strains. This pioneering study provides valuable insights into the population genomics of cultivated mushrooms and their adaptation to environmental stresses.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Genomic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.1038/srep36789
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