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Haplotype-Phased Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly of Floccularia luteovirens Provides Insights into Its Taxonomy, Adaptive Evolution, and Biosynthetic Potential

Summary

Scientists have created the most detailed genetic map of the yellow mushroom (Floccularia luteovirens), a highly valued medicinal and edible fungus from the Tibetan Plateau. Using advanced sequencing technology, they mapped its 13 chromosomes and identified 15 pathways that the mushroom uses to make potentially useful healing compounds. The research also solved a long-standing mystery about the mushroom’s family tree, proving it is not actually related to Armillaria mushrooms as previously thought. This genetic blueprint opens new possibilities for developing medicines from this special fungus.

Background

Floccularia luteovirens is a valuable medicinal and edible ectomycorrhizal fungus endemic to alpine meadows on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau with significant ecological and pharmacological importance. Previous genome assemblies were fragmented and of poor quality, limiting functional genomics research. This species has been historically misclassified within the Armillaria genus despite taxonomic controversies.

Objective

To generate the first haplotype-phased, chromosome-level genome assembly of F. luteovirens and use this resource to clarify its taxonomy, understand adaptive evolution mechanisms, and identify biosynthetic pathways for bioactive compounds.

Results

A chromosome-scale assembly of 26.77 Mb across 13 chromosomes was achieved with 97.6% BUSCO completeness. Phylogenomic analysis revealed F. luteovirens diverged from Armillaria 90.6 million years ago and is most closely related to Mycocalia denudata and Crucibulum laeve. AntiSMASH identified 15 biosynthetic gene clusters including 7 terpenoid synthases, 4 NRPS-like enzymes, and 2 PKSs with a unique hybrid PKS-NRPS synthase containing KS-AT-PT-A domains.

Conclusion

This chromosome-level genome resource provides critical insights into F. luteovirens taxonomy, alpine adaptation mechanisms, and biosynthetic potential for bioactive compounds. The assembly quality significantly surpasses previous genomes and enables future research on symbiotic functions, strain engineering, and sustainable production of fungal therapeutics.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Genomic Analysis Study,
  • Source: 41003167
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