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Analysis of the chitin synthase gene family in Ganoderma lucidum: its structure, phylogeny, and expression patterns

Summary

Scientists studied eight chitin synthase genes in Ganoderma lucidum (reishi mushroom), which are important for building the fungal cell wall and controlling growth. They found that different genes are active at different stages of mushroom development and that six of these genes become more active when exposed to high temperatures, suggesting they help the mushroom survive heat stress. This research helps us understand how mushrooms grow and develop, which could lead to better cultivation methods.

Background

Chitin synthases are essential enzymes in fungi that contribute to hyphal growth, sporulation, and cell wall stability. Despite their well-documented functions in other fungal species, the specific roles of chitin synthases in Ganoderma lucidum remain unexplored. This study systematically characterized the complete chitin synthase gene family in G. lucidum.

Objective

To comprehensively identify and analyze the chitin synthase gene family in G. lucidum through bioinformatics approaches, examining genomic localization, gene structure, conserved domains, phylogenetic evolution, promoter cis-elements, and expression patterns during fungal development and stress conditions.

Results

Eight chitin synthase (GlCS) family members were identified and classified into five distinct classes. Stage-specific expression patterns showed GlCS1, GlCS2, GlCS5, GlCS6, and GlCS8 highly expressed in early fruiting body stage; GlCS3 predominantly expressed in mature fruiting body stage; and GlCS7 peaked in primordium formation stage. Six genes were markedly upregulated under 40°C thermal stress.

Conclusion

The GlCS family members demonstrate functional diversification across different developmental stages and stress conditions, with each member exhibiting specialized biological functions. These findings advance understanding of how chitin synthase genes coordinate fungal growth, stress responses, and development at the molecular level.
  • Published in:PeerJ,
  • Study Type:Genome-wide Bioinformatics Analysis,
  • Source: 10.7717/peerj.20302, PMID: 41211314
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