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Draft genome sequences of five endophytic fungi isolated from Lactuca serriola, a wild relative of cultivated lettuce

Summary

Researchers sequenced the genomes of five fungal species found living inside wild lettuce plants collected in Arizona. These endophytic fungi can potentially improve the growth and disease resistance of cultivated lettuce. The study identified genetic clusters that produce compounds similar to known natural products, which could affect how these fungi interact with plants. This genomic information provides a foundation for future research into using these beneficial fungi as natural inoculants for improving lettuce crops.

Background

Endophytic fungi are microorganisms living within plant tissues without causing disease symptoms and can influence plant growth, stress tolerance, and disease resistance. Lactuca serriola, a wild relative of cultivated lettuce, harbors diverse fungal endophytes that may enhance the quality of cultivated lettuce when applied as microbial inocula. The genomic properties of these endophytes remain largely unexplored.

Objective

To sequence and characterize the genomes of five endophytic fungi isolated from surface-sterilized stems and roots of Lactuca serriola to examine their genomic features and potential applications.

Results

Five endophytic fungi were identified and sequenced: Alternaria postmessia, two Alternaria alternata variants, Fusarium falciforme, and Aspergillus terreus. Genome sizes ranged from 30.6 to 54.2 Mb with 91.1× to 217× coverage. Secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters were identified, some showing high similarity to known compounds and mycotoxins like sansalvamide.

Conclusion

Draft genomes of five endophytic fungi from wild lettuce were successfully sequenced and assembled with high completeness (98.9-99.7%). Future work should characterize identified biosynthetic gene clusters and assess their potential impact on plant interactions and occurrence in cultivated lettuce.
  • Published in:Microbiology Resource Announcements,
  • Study Type:Genomic Characterization Study,
  • Source: 10.1128/mra.00444-25, PMID: 41055369
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