Genomic and transcriptomic analysis of sacred fig (Ficus religiosa)

Area of Science:

• Plant genomics
• Molecular biology
• Ecology

Background:

• Ficus religiosa L. (Peepal/Bodhi tree) is a keystone species with significant cultural and ecological importance in the Indian subcontinent.
• Traditional beliefs suggest the Peepal tree produces oxygen day and night, prompting scientific investigation.
• The plant has extensive historical use in Ayurveda and traditional medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate comprehensive molecular resources for Ficus religiosa L. using whole-genome and transcriptome sequencing.
• To investigate the genetic basis of physiological pathways, particularly carbon fixation, in Peepal tree leaf tissues.
• To provide foundational data for future research on the Peepal tree's unique biological characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing was performed using Illumina HiSeq1000 and MGISEQ-2000 next-generation sequencers.
• A hybrid assembly workflow was employed to construct the draft genome, followed by gene annotation.
• RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) was conducted on leaf tissues under diurnal and nocturnal conditions.

Main Results:

• A draft genome assembly of 406 Mb was generated, containing 35,093 protein-coding genes, with 53% repetitive sequences.
• RNA-seq analysis identified 26,479 expressed unigenes, with significant gene expression observed in the carbon-fixation pathway during both day and night.
• Transcriptomic data revealed diurnal and nocturnal gene expression patterns related to photosynthesis.

Conclusions:

• This study successfully presents a draft hybrid genome assembly and functional annotation for Ficus religiosa.
• The generated genomic and transcriptomic data provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of the Peepal tree.
• The analyzed pathways lay the groundwork for future in-depth studies on Ficus religiosa's physiology and ecological role.