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The Nearly Complete Genome of Grifola frondosa and Light-Induced Genes Screened Based on Transcriptomics Promote the Production of Triterpenoid Compounds

Summary

Researchers sequenced the complete genetic code of maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) and discovered how light exposure influences the production of beneficial compounds called triterpenoids. The high-quality genome assembly revealed 12,526 genes and showed that light triggers specific genes involved in making these medicinal compounds. This breakthrough provides a scientific foundation for growing maitake mushrooms with optimized levels of health-promoting substances.

Background

Grifola frondosa (turkey tail/maitake) is a medicinal fungus rich in bioactive compounds including triterpenoids and polysaccharides with documented health benefits. Previous genome assemblies of G. frondosa were largely incomplete, limiting comprehensive genomic and metabolic studies. Environmental factors like light exposure influence fungal metabolism and bioactive compound production.

Objective

To construct a high-quality chromosome-level genome assembly of G. frondosa CH1 and identify light-induced genes regulating triterpenoid biosynthesis through transcriptomic analysis. The study aimed to provide comprehensive genomic data and elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which light influences secondary metabolite production.

Results

A nearly complete 35.74 Mb genome with 12 chromosomes and 12,526 protein-coding genes was assembled with 95.1% BUSCO completeness. Phylogenetic analysis revealed G. frondosa CH1 is most closely related to Trametes cinnabarina. Transcriptomic analysis identified 231 differentially expressed genes under light conditions, with 43 CYP450 genes upregulated under light and 10 triterpenoid biosynthesis clusters identified, 3 of which were light-sensitive.

Conclusion

This study provides the first nearly complete telomere-to-telomere genome of G. frondosa CH1 with high completeness and quality. Light exposure significantly influences expression of genes involved in triterpenoid biosynthesis and secondary metabolism. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing cultivation practices and developing biotechnological applications for enhanced production of medicinal compounds.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Genomic and Transcriptomic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof11040322, PMID: 40278142
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