Long-Read Sequencing and Comparative Genome Analyses of Seven Emergomyces Type-Strains

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Genomics
• Fungal Pathogenesis

Background:

• Emergomyces species are dimorphic fungal pathogens causing opportunistic infections globally.
• Accurate taxonomic classification and understanding genetic relatedness are crucial for managing fungal diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate de novo genome assemblies for seven type-strains of Emergomyces species using long-read nanopore sequencing.
• To perform comparative genomic analyses to elucidate the genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships within the Emergomyces genus.
• To formally validate species descriptions for Emergomyces crescens and Emergomyces soli.

Main Methods:

• Long-read nanopore sequencing for de novo genome assembly.
• Comparative genomic analyses, including Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) analysis.
• Formal validation of species descriptions based on genomic data.

Main Results:

• Generated high-quality genome assemblies for Emergomyces africanus, E. canadensis, E. crescens, E. europaeus, E. orientalis, E. pasteurianus, and E. soli.
• Average genome size was approximately 33 Mb with GC content ranging from 42.01-45.72%.
• ANI analysis showed high similarity (85-100%) among Emergomyces genomes and 85-91% across twelve tested species, clarifying taxonomic boundaries.

Conclusions:

• The genomic data provides a foundation for further research into Emergomyces biology and pathogenicity.
• The study formally validates E. crescens and E. soli, contributing to taxonomic clarity.
• Comparative genomics highlights the genetic relatedness and diversity within the Emergomyces genus, aiding in the study of fungal infections.