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Genomic Insights into the Evolution and Adaptation of Secondary Metabolite Gene Clusters in Fungicolous Species Cladobotryum mycophilum ATHUM6906

Summary

This research analyzed the genetic makeup of Cladobotryum mycophilum, a fungus that parasitizes other fungi, particularly mushrooms. The study revealed how this fungus has evolved and adapted to its lifestyle through various genetic changes and acquisitions. Impact on everyday life: – Helps understand and potentially control mushroom crop diseases – Provides insights for developing better fungal disease management strategies – Could lead to discovery of new bioactive compounds – Contributes to understanding ecological relationships between fungi – May help improve mushroom cultivation practices

Background

Mycophilic or fungicolous fungi colonize other fungi across diverse habitats. Some fungicolous species cause important diseases on Basidiomycetes and are responsible for destroying mushroom cultivations. Despite their ecological significance, genomic data remains limited. Cladobotryum mycophilum is one of the most aggressive species, destroying economically important Agaricus bisporus cultivations.

Objective

To analyze the whole genome sequence of C. mycophilum strain ATHUM6906 to understand its secondary metabolism gene clusters, evolution, and adaptation as a fungicolous species. The study aimed to identify genes and genetic elements related to mycophilic behavior, explore secondary metabolic capabilities, and conduct comparative genomic analyses within the Hypocreaceae family.

Results

The 40.7 Mb genome was assembled into 16 fragments, including the mitochondrial genome and 2 small circular mitochondrial plasmids. The genome contains 12,282 protein-coding genes, 56 rRNA genes, and 273 tRNA genes. A comprehensive set of 106 biosynthetic gene clusters was identified, making it one of the most BGC-abundant among fungicolous species. Comparative analyses revealed evidence of extensive BGC losses, horizontal gene transfer events, and formation of novel BGCs during evolution.

Conclusion

The study provides insights into C. mycophilum’s genome structure and evolution, particularly regarding secondary metabolism. The findings suggest that BGC acquisition occurred stochastically, driven by neutral or positive selection pressures. These events may increase Cladobotryum fitness under various environmental conditions and potentially during host-fungus interaction. The research establishes groundwork for understanding fungicolous adaptation in Cladobotryum species.
  • Published in:G3: Genes | Genomes | Genetics,
  • Study Type:Genomic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.1093/g3journal/jkae006
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