Poster #23

Unraveling the Genomic Tapestry of Fusarium acuminatum: Insights into Pathogenicity and Symbiotic Dynamics
X. ZHAO, B. LAN, K. YIN
School of Grassland Science, Beijing Forestry University, No. 35 Tsinghua East Road, Beijing, CA 100083, China

Fusarium acuminatum stands as both pathogen to various crops and symbiotic partner to orchids. This study focused on the genome of F. acuminatum 1A isolated from alfalfa in Gansu Province. Using ONT and Illumina sequencing, we obtained a 46.7 Mb chromosome-level genome with 11,342 putative coding genes. Comparative genomics analysis with 51 Fusarium species highlighted the dominance of the glycoside hydrolases (GH) subfamily among carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), underscoring their importance in colonization process. Transient over-expression tests in N. benthamiana leaves identified Contig6G00094600.1 as a toxic effector capable of triggering cell death, suggesting its pivotal role in pathogenesis. The study also noted a positive correlation between CAZymes and effectors, suggesting their co-evolution during the establishment of pathogenicity. Two genes, including Contig7G00104530, likely involved in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and oxidative stress response, were identified as candidates for horizontal gene transfer (HGT). This work provides critical genetic insights into F. acuminatum's pathogenicity while offering a valuable perspective for studying lifestyle transitions across diverse plant hosts. Utilizing the dual roles of F. acuminatum across diverse plant hosts, future research will explore the mechanisms underpinning these adaptive shifts in fungi.