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Dual-Track Genome Evolution in Curvularia muehlenbeckiae Suggests Host Jump to Pecan via Putative Mini-Chromosome

Ke Deng1, Ruoyi Guo2, Saibin Lv3

  • 1Zhejiang A&F University, College of Life Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; dengke0601@163.com.

Plant Disease
|May 22, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Genomic analysis of Curvularia muehlenbeckiae reveals mini-chromosomes aiding virulence and gene expansions enabling pecan adaptation. This study uncovers a biphasic infection strategy for pecan leaf spot management.

Area of Science:

  • Genomics
  • Plant Pathology
  • Mycology

Background:

  • Curvularia muehlenbeckiae (P-6) causes severe leaf spot disease in pecan (Carya illinoinensis).
  • The genomic basis for its host jump to pecan is not well understood.
  • Understanding P-6's genomic mechanisms is crucial for managing pecan diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present the first near-complete genome assembly of P-6.
  • To investigate the genomic factors contributing to P-6's virulence and adaptation to pecan.
  • To elucidate the infection strategy of P-6 in pecan.

Main Methods:

  • Genome assembly and analysis of P-6.
  • Pan-genome analysis to compare virulence factors.
  • Time-resolved transcriptomics to study gene expression during infection.
  • Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA).

Main Results:

  • A near-complete genome assembly of P-6 (33.77 Mb) with 14 chromosomes, including two mini-chromosomes (Chr13/Chr14) harboring virulence factors.
  • Identification of lineage-specific expansions in Major Facilitator Superfamily (MFS) transporters and Zn2Cys6 transcription factors.
  • Discovery of a biphasic infection strategy regulated by Zn2Cys6 transcription factors, involving ROS detoxification, MFS transporters, carbohydrate metabolism, and toxin production.
  • Optimal growth conditions for P-6 identified as 28°C and pH 5.0-6.0.

Conclusions:

  • Mini-chromosomes may facilitate virulence gene acquisition in P-6.
  • Expanded Zn2Cys6 transcription factors and MFS transporters form a co-regulated network for pecan adaptation.
  • The identified virulence hubs offer potential targets for eco-friendly pecan leaf spot management strategies.
Keywords:
Causal AgentCrop TypeFungiHorizontal gene transferMFS transportersMini-chromosomePathogen diversityPecan leaf spot controlSubject AreasTelomere-to-telomere genomeTreesZn2Cys6 transcription factorstree nuts

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