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Molecular Characterization of a Novel Mycovirus in the Cultivated Mushroom, Lentinula edodes

Summary

This research discovered and characterized a new type of virus that infects shiitake mushrooms. Unlike most viruses, this one doesn’t have a protein shell and exists as naked genetic material. This discovery helps us better understand how viruses evolve and interact with commercially important mushrooms. Impacts on everyday life: • Helps improve commercial mushroom cultivation practices • Advances our understanding of virus evolution and adaptation • Could lead to better management of mushroom diseases • May improve quality control in mushroom production • Contributes to food security by protecting commercial mushroom crops

Background

In the 1970s, mycoviruses were identified in the edible mushroom Lentinula edodes (shiitake), but were not considered causal agents for mushroom diseases. None of their genes had been sequenced previously. Abnormal symptoms occasionally observed in bag cultures of shiitake, such as white/fluffy mycelia growth, inadequate substrate browning, and fruiting body malformations, prompted investigation into potential mycovirus involvement.

Objective

To sequence and characterize the dsRNA genome of a newly discovered mycovirus (LeV) found in a commercial shiitake mushroom strain, and determine its molecular structure and phylogenetic relationships.

Results

The complete 11,282-bp genome of LeV was sequenced, containing two open reading frames (ORFs). ORF1 encoded a hypothetical protein with a NUDIX domain, while ORF2 encoded a putative RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). A 62-bp intergenic region separated the ORFs. No coat protein coding region was found. Phylogenetic analysis grouped LeV with other basidiomycete mycoviruses, distinct from Totiviridae and Chrysoviridae families. AFM revealed LeV as linear unencapsidated dsRNA.

Conclusion

LeV represents a novel family of mycoviruses found thus far only among basidiomycetes. It has a monopartite dsRNA genome closely related to Totivirus but does not form virion particles, suggesting it belongs to a new class of mycovirus.
  • Published in:Virology Journal,
  • Study Type:Molecular Characterization Study,
  • Source: 10.1186/1743-422X-9-60
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