Whole-genome assembly and analysis of a medicinal fungus: Inonotus hispidus

Shaojun Tang1, Lei Jin1, Pin Lei1

  • 1Hunan Institute of Microbiology, Changsha, China.

Frontiers in Microbiology
|September 23, 2022
PubMed

Insights

This study presents the first whole-genome sequencing of the medicinal macrofungus Inonotus hispidus. Analysis revealed key genes for medicinal properties, offering a basis for genetic improvement of this valuable fungus.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Genomics
  • Medicinal Mushrooms

Background:

  • Inonotus hispidus (I. hispidus) is a macrofungus recognized for its medicinal properties, including anti-tumor and antioxidant activities.
  • Understanding the genetic makeup of I. hispidus is crucial for unlocking its full therapeutic and commercial potential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To perform whole-genome sequencing and analysis of I. hispidus for the first time.
  • To identify genes related to medicinal functions, particularly those involved in secondary metabolite production.
  • To conduct phylogenetic and comparative genomic analyses to understand its evolutionary relationships.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing using the Illumina NovaSeq platform.
  • Bioinformatic analysis including gene annotation for carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) and secondary metabolite pathways.
  • Phylogenetic and comparative genomic analyses using single-copy orthologous protein genes.

Main Results:

  • The genome of I. hispidus was sequenced, yielding 35,688,031 bp across 30 contigs.
  • Annotation identified 402 CAZyme genes and 93 genes involved in secondary metabolite regulation, with a notable abundance of terpene-related genes.
  • Phylogenetic analysis indicated high homology between I. hispidus and Sanghuangporus baumii.

Conclusions:

  • The genomic data provides a foundation for understanding the medicinal value of I. hispidus, especially its terpene biosynthesis pathways.
  • The findings support the screening of candidate genes for improving nutritional value and developing high-yield, high-quality I. hispidus strains through genetic engineering.

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