comparative genomics – Page 2

Sanctuary: a Starship transposon facilitating the movement of the virulence factor ToxA in fungal wheat pathogens

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Researchers found that a disease-causing gene called ToxA, which helps fungal pathogens infect wheat crops, travels between different fungal species using molecular ‘cargo ships’ called Starship transposons. By sequencing multiple fungal isolates, scientists discovered that ToxA rides within a larger mobile genetic element called Sanctuary that can move around within fungal genomes and between species. This discovery helps explain how wheat pathogens become more dangerous over time through horizontal gene transfer.

Saprotrophic Arachnopeziza Species as New Resources to Study the Obligate Biotrophic Lifestyle of Powdery Mildew Fungi

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Scientists studied two species of fungi called Arachnopeziza that are closely related to powdery mildew fungi but can grow independently on simple lab media. By analyzing their complete genomes and developing techniques to genetically modify these fungi, researchers created a new tool for understanding how powdery mildew fungi became dependent on plants. This breakthrough allows scientists to study these harmful plant pathogens more effectively without having to work directly with the difficult-to-cultivate powdery mildew fungi.

Penicillium psychrofluorescens sp. nov., a naturally autofluorescent Antarctic fungus

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Scientists discovered a new cold-loving fungus in Antarctic soil that glows remarkably bright under ultraviolet light. This fungus, named Penicillium psychrofluorescens, produces its own fluorescent chemicals and contains many genes for making novel medicinal compounds. Its unique characteristics suggest it could be valuable for developing new medicines and biotechnological applications.

Comparative genome analysis of patulin-producing Penicillium paneum OM1 isolated from pears

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Researchers sequenced the complete genome of a mold called Penicillium paneum that produces a toxic substance called patulin, which contaminates apples and pears. They found all 15 genes responsible for making patulin and discovered the mold has similar genetic patterns to other patulin-producing fungi. This information could help scientists develop better ways to prevent patulin contamination on fruit crops and improve food safety.

Population structure in a fungal human pathogen is potentially linked to pathogenicity

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Aspergillus flavus is a common fungal infection found in both hospitals and the environment. Researchers studied the genetic makeup of 300 fungal samples from patients and the environment across multiple countries. They discovered that clinical isolates cluster into specific genetic groups, with one group containing most patient-derived samples. This finding suggests that certain genetic populations of this fungus may be better adapted to infecting humans than others.

Sporothrix is neglected among the neglected

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Sporotrichosis is a fungal infection caused by Sporothrix species that usually affects the skin but can spread to joints, lungs, and eyes. While traditionally spread through plant material during gardening, the disease has increasingly spread between cats and humans through bites and scratches, particularly in South America and other regions. The fungus is developing resistance to common antifungal drugs, and scientists worry climate change could expand where this disease occurs worldwide.

De novo Genome Assembly and Annotation of 12 Fungi Associated with Fruit Tree Decline Syndrome in ON, Canada

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Apple and stone fruit trees in Ontario have been dying at alarming rates since 2016. Researchers sequenced and analyzed the genetic code of 12 different fungi suspected of causing this decline. This study provides the first complete genetic blueprints for several fungal species, helping farmers and scientists better understand what causes the disease and develop ways to prevent it.

A high-quality genome assembly of angel-wing mushroom Pleurocybella porrigens that causes acute encephalopathy

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Scientists created a detailed genetic blueprint of the angel-wing mushroom, which caused serious poisonings in Japan. They identified three toxic compounds in the mushroom and found a gene that likely produces one of the most dangerous toxins responsible for brain damage. This research helps explain how the mushroom makes its poison and could lead to better understanding of foodborne illness prevention.

Genome sequencing and analysis of isolates of Cytospora sorbicola and Cytospora plurivora associated with almond and peach canker

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This study provides genetic blueprints for two dangerous fungal pathogens that damage almond and peach orchards by causing canker diseases. Scientists sequenced the complete genomes of these fungi and identified genes responsible for their ability to infect plants, finding that they’ve evolved special abilities to survive in nutrient-poor bark tissue. This genetic information could help farmers develop fruit trees resistant to these infections. The research also clarifies the identity of a newly described fungal species, showing it’s actually the same as a previously known species.

Comparative genome analysis of patulin-producing Penicillium paneum OM1 isolated from pears

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Scientists sequenced the genome of a pear fungus called Penicillium paneum that produces patulin, a toxic compound found in moldy apples and pears. By analyzing its genetic blueprint, researchers identified 33 different toxin-producing gene clusters, with special focus on the 15 genes responsible for patulin production. The findings reveal which genes P. paneum uses to make patulin and how they compare to other fungal species, potentially helping develop better ways to prevent patulin contamination in fruit and fruit products.

Research Keyword: comparative genomics