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Genetic and Genomic Analysis Identifies bcltf1 as the Transcription Factor Coding Gene Mutated in Field Isolate Bc116, Deficient in Light Responses, Differentiation and Pathogenicity in Botrytis cinerea

Summary

Researchers studying gray mold fungus in Spanish vineyards found a natural mutant strain (Bc116) that behaves differently from typical strains, particularly in response to light. Through genetic analysis, they identified that a mutation in the bcltf1 gene is responsible for this strain’s reduced ability to infect plants, increased spore production, and altered survival structure formation. Restoring the normal version of this gene reversed all these unusual characteristics, confirming bcltf1’s critical role in fungal development and disease-causing ability.

Background

Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic fungus exhibiting complex responses to light, which are critical for differentiation and pathogenicity. Natural populations show high phenotypic and genetic diversity, providing valuable resources for genetic characterization. The BcLTF1 transcription factor has been identified as important for light responses and virulence in B. cinerea.

Objective

To identify and characterize the genetic mutation in field isolate Bc116, which displays reduced pathogenicity conditioned by light regime, hyperconidiation, and altered sclerotia production patterns. To determine the molecular basis of these phenotypes through genetic mapping and genomic analysis.

Results

A single genetic locus controls the alternative phenotypes for aggressiveness, conidiation, and sclerotia production in Bc116. BSA mapping identified a 200 kb region on chromosome 14, which revealed a 2 kb deletion in the bcltf1 gene affecting the 5′ UTR and first exon. Transformation with wild-type bcltf1 allele restored pathogenic and developmental wild-type phenotypes.

Conclusion

Field isolate Bc116 carries a natural mutation in bcltf1 encoding a light-responsive transcription factor. This finding demonstrates that bcltf1 is critical for regulating light responses, differentiation, and pathogenicity in B. cinerea, with analysis of this natural mutant providing additional insights into BcLTF1 physiological functions.
  • Published in:International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
  • Study Type:Genetic and Genomic Analysis Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40331932, DOI: 10.3390/ijms26083481
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