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Comparative Genomics of the Mating-Type Loci of the Mushroom Flammulina velutipes Reveals Widespread Synteny and Recent Inversions

Summary

This research examined the genetic mechanisms controlling mating in the edible Winter Mushroom (Enoki). The study revealed complex genetic systems that determine compatibility between different mushroom strains during reproduction. Understanding these systems is important for mushroom breeding and cultivation. Impacts on everyday life: – Improved breeding methods for commercial mushroom production – More efficient cultivation of edible mushrooms – Better understanding of fungal reproduction and evolution – Enhanced ability to develop new mushroom varieties – Potential applications in biotechnology and agriculture

Background

Mating-type loci of mushroom fungi contain master regulatory genes that control recognition between compatible nuclei, maintenance of compatible nuclei as heterokaryons, and fruiting body development. Regions near mating-type loci in fungi often show adapted recombination, facilitating the generation of novel mating types and reducing the production of self-compatible mating types. Compared to other fungi, mushroom fungi have complex mating-type systems, showing both loci with redundant function (subloci) and subloci with many alleles. The genomic organization of mating-type loci has been solved in very few mushroom species, which complicates proper interpretation of mating-type evolution and use of those genes in breeding programs.

Objective

To elucidate the genetic structure and map the mating-type genes of the important edible mushroom Flammulina velutipes, use comparative genomics to understand evolutionary distinctions of its loci, and implement this knowledge in mushroom breeding programs.

Results

Two matB3 subloci were mapped 177 Kb apart on scaffold 1 – matB3a containing a unique pheromone and matB3b. The matA locus contains three homeodomain genes distributed over 73 Kb distant matA3a and matA3b subloci. The conserved matA region in Agaricales approaches 350 Kb and contains conserved recombination hotspots showing major rearrangements in F. velutipes and S. commune. The separation of matA subloci in F. velutipes occurred through two large inversions, while in S. commune it emerged through transposition of gene clusters.

Conclusion

The study determined that Agaricales have very large scale synteny at matA (∼350 Kb) that is maintained even when parts are separated through chromosomal rearrangements. Four conserved recombination hotspots allow reshuffling of large fragments. Additionally, matB subloci can exist at large distances. The genes linked to specific mating types will serve as molecular markers in breeding programs.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Genomic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.1371/journal.pone.0022249
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