Whole genome sequencing of the soil fungus Rhizoctonia solani anastomosis group 3
Overview
Rhizoctonia solani anastomosis group 3 (AG-3) is a common fungal inhabitant of the soil ecosystem and has a worldwide distribution. R. solani AG-3 represents the most genetically tractable member of the R. solani species complex and is a pathogen that affects important food crops in the plant family Solanaceae, including eggplant, pepper, potato and tomato. In addition to its parasitic lifestyle, the fungus can also grow as a saprotroph on dead plant material promoting the decay and recycling of organic matter. The research will provide a unique opportunity to examine the genome of a plant pathogen with saprotrophic activity in a poorly represented group of fungi in the phylum Basidiomycota. The taxonomic placement of R. solani as a phylogenetic intermediate between the Heterobasidiomycetes (jelly, rust and smut fungi) and Homobasidiomycetes (mushrooms) will contribute significantly to our understanding of the evolution of basidiomycete fungi.
We are doing whole genome sequencing of R. solani AG-3 using Sanger and 454 pyrosequencing methods followed by automated directed sequencing into the remaining gaps. Normalized, full-length cDNAs generated during six different phases of fungal development and an optical map will be used to aid in the assembly and annotation of the genome sequence. The genome sequence of R. solani AG-3 will complement current genome sequencing projects on potato and tomato to better our understanding of host parasite interactions.
We will develop a comprehensive database for comparative and functional genomics experiments with additional members of the R. solani species complex to address issues related to fungal cell metabolism, developmental biology, ecology, and plant host specificity. The proposed research will also provide insight into understanding the biochemical and molecular events regulating the parasitic and saprobic activity of R. solani such that new disease management strategies can be developed to promote increased agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Funding