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Comparative transcriptome analysis of Monascus purpureus at different fermentation times revealed candidate genes
Liuming Xie1, Jianhua Xie2, XianXiang Chen2
1State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, No. 235 Nanjing East Road, Nanchang 330047, China; Sino-German Joint Research Institute, Nanchang University, No. 235 Nanjing East Road, Nanchang 330047, China.
Abstract:
Exopolysaccharides (EPS), metabolites of the medicinal edible fungus Monascus purpureus, have antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the biosynthetic mechanism of EPS from M. purpureus is still unclear, which hinders its utilization. In this study, the fermentation conditions of M. purpureus were optimized and comparative transcriptomic analysis was performed to understand the mechanisms and effects of fermentation on EPS synthesis. The optimal medium composition was 40 g/L mannose, 4 g/L yeast powder, 1 g/L MgSO4·7H2O, 0.8 g/L KH2PO4, 1.6 g/L K2HPO4·3H2O, and 2 mL/L Tween 80, and the optimal cultivation conditions were an inoculum of 7 %, culture temperature 30 °C, initial pH 6.0, and 180 rpm for 4 d. A total of 8095 unigenes were obtained, and 17 key enzymes for EPS synthesis were identified. Interestingly, 12 carbohydrate metabolism subcategories were enriched in the group with 4 days of fermentation compared to 2 days, with most of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) being upregulated, but only nine carbohydrate metabolism subcategories were enriched with longer fermentation time, with all DEGs being downregulated. This study provides a theoretical basis for enhancing the EPS content and reveals the dynamics of EPS synthesis in M. purpureus, providing important targets for future EPS molecular modifications and gene knockdown studies.
Insights
This study optimized Monascus purpureus fermentation for exopolysaccharides (EPS) production. It identified key enzymes and gene expression patterns, revealing insights into EPS biosynthesis for enhanced utilization.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Fungal Biotechnology
Background:
- Exopolysaccharides (EPS) from Monascus purpureus exhibit valuable antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- The biosynthetic pathway of EPS in M. purpureus remains largely uncharacterized, limiting its biotechnological applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize fermentation conditions for M. purpureus EPS production.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing EPS synthesis through comparative transcriptomics.
Main Methods:
- Optimization of medium composition (mannose, yeast powder, salts, Tween 80) and cultivation parameters (inoculum, temperature, pH, agitation, duration).
- Comparative transcriptomic analysis of M. purpureus at different fermentation stages (2 vs. 4 days).
- Identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and enriched carbohydrate metabolism pathways.
Main Results:
- Optimal fermentation conditions were determined for maximizing EPS yield.
- 17 key enzymes involved in EPS synthesis were identified.
- Transcriptomic analysis revealed dynamic changes in carbohydrate metabolism gene expression during fermentation, with distinct patterns at 2 and 4 days.
Conclusions:
- This research provides a foundational understanding of EPS biosynthesis in M. purpureus.
- The identified key enzymes and gene expression dynamics offer targets for future genetic engineering to enhance EPS production.
- Optimized fermentation strategies can improve the yield and utilization of M. purpureus EPS.
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