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Comparison and Analysis of the Genomes of Three Strains of Botrytis cinerea Isolated from Pomegranate

Summary

Researchers compared three strains of gray mold fungus (Botrytis cinerea) that infect pomegranate fruits from different regions in Mexico. Using DNA sequencing and laboratory tests, they found that the MIC strain from Hidalgo was more aggressive at infecting fruit and breaking down plant tissues than the other two strains from the State of Mexico. These differences appear related to each strain’s genetic makeup and where they originated, which could help farmers develop better strategies to prevent gray mold disease on pomegranates.

Background

Gray mold disease, caused by Botrytis cinerea, is a significant phytopathogenic fungus affecting many plant species globally. The disease has been reported in pomegranate crops in various geographic locations including Mexico and Greece. Understanding strain-level differences in virulence and genetic variation is important for developing effective control strategies.

Objective

This study aimed to compare three B. cinerea strains (BcPgIs-1, BcPgIs-3, and MIC) isolated from diseased pomegranate fruits from different geographic locations in Mexico through in vitro phenotypic tests and comprehensive genomic analysis. The goal was to identify possible differences among these strains that may reflect their adaptive capacities and pathogenic potential.

Results

All three strains possessed 17 scaffolds with genomes exceeding 41 Mb and approximately 42% GC content. MIC strain exhibited the highest pectinolytic activity and shortest sclerotia formation time (7 days), while BcPgIs-3 demonstrated highest conidia production. Phylogenomic analysis showed MIC clustered separately from BcPgIs-1 and BcPgIs-3. The three strains shared 10,174 genes, with MIC containing more CAZymes and peptidase genes despite having fewer total coding sequences.

Conclusion

The three B. cinerea strains isolated from pomegranate fruits exhibit differences in genomic profiles and phenotypic characteristics that suggest strain-specific adaptations influenced by geographic and environmental factors. The MIC strain demonstrated higher virulence-related characteristics and faster infection capacity. These findings provide insights into pathogenic variation that could aid in developing more targeted and effective gray mold control strategies for pomegranate cultivation.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Comparative Genomic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13071605, PMID: 40732114
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