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Application of I TASSER, trRosetta, UCSF Chimera, HADDOCK server, and HEX loria for De Novo and In Silico Design of Proteins
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Diversity, multifaceted evolution, and facultative saprotrophism in the European Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans

Moira Kelly1, Frank Pasmans2, Jose F Muñoz3

  • 1Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium. Moira.Kelly@ugent.be.

Nature Communications
|November 19, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Genomic analysis of the emerging fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) reveals multiple divergent lineages and an isolate-specific saprotrophic lifecycle. These findings explain Bsal

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Genomics
  • Conservation Biology

Background:

  • Emerging fungal pathogens pose a significant threat to global biodiversity.
  • A lack of genomic data for fungi hinders the understanding and management of epidemics.
  • Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) is an emerging pathogen impacting amphibian populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To generate de novo genomic assemblies for six Bsal outbreaks.
  • To characterize the genetic diversity and evolutionary adaptations of Bsal.
  • To understand the lifecycle of Bsal and its implications for amphibian declines.

Main Methods:

  • De novo genome assembly of six Bsal isolates.
  • Comparative genomics to identify gene family expansions and acquisitions.
  • Analysis of evolutionary mechanisms driving Bsal adaptation.

Main Results:

  • The European Bsal epidemic consists of multiple, highly divergent lineages.
  • Isolates exhibit unique adaptations and metabolic capabilities, including gene family expansions.
  • Evidence of an isolate-specific saprotrophic lifecycle was discovered.

Conclusions:

  • The diverse lineages and saprotrophic ability of Bsal explain its transmission dynamics and impact on amphibian populations.
  • Understanding Bsal's genomic adaptations is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies.
  • Genomic insights are essential for combating emerging fungal threats to biodiversity.

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