Within the framework of JGI Community Sequencing Project “Defensive Mutualism of Fungal Root Endophytes of Soybean”, we are investigating the potential role of fungal endophytes isolated from soybean roots in protecting against two root pathogens: 1) the root rot fungus causing Soybean Sudden Death Syndrome (Fusarium virguliforme) and the soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines). These fungi were screened for either anti-fungal or anti-nematode activity in-vitro and genome, transcriptome, and metabolome sequencing will address possible mechanisms of antagonism against these pathogens.
Members of the genus Clonostachys are well known as mycoparasites [1] and often deployed in biocontrol of plant pathogens in agriculture [2, 3], but many species have also been shown to have activity against nematodes [4]. This strain of C. rosea was isolated from soybean roots, but closely related strains were also found in the cysts of the soybean cyst nematode as parasites and inhibited nematode egg-hatch. Recent studies have elucidated many secondary metabolites produced by this fungus with varied biological activities that could play a role in their antagonism against either other fungi or nematodes [5, 6].
Researchers who wish to publish analyses using data from unpublished CSP genomes are respectfully required to contact the PI (Dr. Kathryn Bushley) and JGI to avoid potential conflicts on data use and coordinate other publications with the CSP master paper(s).
References:
- Karlsson, M., et al., Insights on the Evolution of Mycoparasitism from the Genome of Clonostachys rosea. Genome Biology and Evolution, 2015. 7(2): p. 465-480.
- Krauss, U., et al., Mycoparasitism by Clonostachys byssicola and Clonostachys rosea on Trichoderma spp. from cocoa (Theobroma cacao) and implication for the design of mixed biocontrol agents. Biological Control, 2013. 67(3): p. 317-327.
- Geiger, A., et al., Mycoparasitism capability and growth inhibition activity of Clonostachys rosea isolates against fungal pathogens of grapevine trunk diseases suggest potential for biocontrol. Plos One, 2022. 17(9): p. 13.
- Zhang, L., et al., Investigation on the infection mechanism of the fungus Clonostachys rosea against nematodes using the green fluorescent protein. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 2008. 78(6): p. 983-990.
- Han, P.P., et al., Metabolites from Clonostachys Fungi and Their Biological Activities. Journal of Fungi, 2020. 6(4): p. 31.
- Yin, T.P., et al., A new polyketide glycoside from the rhizospheric Clonostachys rogersoniana associated with Panax notoginseng. Journal of Asian Natural Products Research, 2017. 19(12): p. 1258-1263.
