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Comparative Genomic Data Provide New Insight on the Evolution of Pathogenicity in Sporothrix Species

Mengya Huang1,2, Ziying Ma3, Xun Zhou1,2

  • 1Department of Dermatology and Cosmetology, Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China.

Frontiers in Microbiology
|October 29, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Genomic analysis of 12 Sporothrix species reveals smaller genomes in key clinical species, linked to reduced virulence and a shift from environmental to pathogenic lifestyles. This study enhances understanding of Sporothrix pathogenicity and evolution.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Genomics
  • Pathogen Evolution

Background:

  • Sporothrix species cause zoonotic mycoses, threatening animal and human health.
  • Pathogenic profiles, virulence, and host ranges of Sporothrix species vary and require further exploration.
  • Genomic analysis is crucial for understanding Sporothrix pathogenicity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the whole genomes of 12 Sporothrix species and six clinical isolates of S. globosa.
  • To investigate the genomic basis of pathogenicity and evolutionary shifts in Sporothrix species.
  • To identify key genes and metabolic pathways associated with Sporothrix virulence.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of 12 Sporothrix species and six S. globosa isolates.
  • Comparative genomic analyses utilizing KEGG, CAZy, antiSMASH, Pfam, and PHI databases.
  • Analysis of gene content, genome size, and metabolic pathways.

Main Results:

  • Sporothrix species exhibit extensive primary and secondary metabolism.
  • Clinical species (S. brasiliensis, S. schenckii, S. globosa, S. luriei) possess smaller genomes than environmental/other clinical species.
  • Contracted genes in clinical species include CAZymes and peptidases, potentially indicating adaptation to mammalian hosts and reduced environmental decay functions.
  • Gene clusters for melanin and clavaric acid were identified, offering insights into pathogenicity and potential antitumor effects.
  • No significant genomic variations were found among S. globosa isolates from different Chinese regions.

Conclusions:

  • Genome contraction in clinical Sporothrix species correlates with a shift from saprobic to pathogenic lifestyles and increased virulence.
  • The study provides a genomic basis for understanding Sporothrix evolution and adaptation.
  • Identified gene clusters offer new avenues for research into Sporothrix pathogenicity and therapeutic potential.
Keywords:
Sporothrixcomparative genomicsenzymefungal evolutiongene clustersphylogeny

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