Pathogenicity in Ascomycetes: Insights from Gene Family Evolution
Author Information
Author(s): Sánchez-RodrÃguez Aminael, Martens Cindy, Engelen Kristof, Van de Peer Yves, Marchal Kathleen
Primary Institution: K.U. Leuven
Hypothesis
How do gene family gains and losses affect the origin of pathogenic traits in Ascomycetes?
Conclusion
Most proteins necessary for pathogenicity were already present in the ancestor of the Ascomycete lineages studied, and non-pathogenic species reduced their genetic complexity compared to their ancestors.
Supporting Evidence
- Gene families with larger sizes in pathogens were present in a common ancestor.
- Non-pathogen-specific losses outnumbered pathogen-specific losses.
- Species that did not develop pathogenicity reduced their genetic complexity.
Takeaway
The study shows that many genes needed for fungi to be harmful to plants were already there in their ancestors, and those that didn't become harmful lost some of their genes.
Methodology
The study analyzed the evolutionary history of gene families in Ascomycetes by comparing genomes of both pathogenic and non-pathogenic species.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on a limited number of species and may not represent all Ascomycetes.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website