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Comparative genome structure, secondary metabolite, and effector coding capacity across Cochliobolus pathogens
Bradford J Condon1, Yueqiang Leng, Dongliang Wu
1Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA.
Plos Genetics
|January 30, 2013
Summary
Genomic sequencing of Cochliobolus and Setosphaeria fungi reveals significant differences between species but conservation within species. Strain-unique genes, particularly those for secondary metabolism, are linked to fungal virulence on cereal hosts.
Area of Science:
- Fungal genomics
- Plant pathology
- Comparative genomics
Background:
- Cochliobolus and Setosphaeria species are important fungal pathogens affecting various cereal crops.
- Understanding the genetic basis of host specificity is crucial for disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To sequence and compare the genomes of multiple Cochliobolus and Setosphaeria species and strains.
- To identify genomic variations, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), unique regions, and effector genes.
- To correlate genomic features with host specificity and virulence.
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome sequencing of nine fungal strains and one species.
- Bioinformatic analysis including whole-genome alignment and SNP identification.
- Identification and characterization of secondary metabolism genes (NRPS, PKS) and small secreted protein (SSP) encoding genes.
Main Results:
- Significant genomic divergence exists between species (approx. 25% difference) compared to within species (3-5% difference).
- Secondary metabolism gene clusters (NRPS, PKS) and SSPs show high diversity across species but conservation within species.
- Strain-unique genes, particularly PKS and NRPS, strongly correlate with virulence.
Conclusions:
- Genomic plasticity and unique gene content contribute to host specificity in Cochliobolus and Setosphaeria.
- Comparative genomics provides insights into the evolution of virulence and host adaptation in fungal pathogens.
- Targeting strain-unique virulence factors could offer novel disease control strategies.
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