The Comparative Genomics of Botryosphaeriaceae Suggests Gene Families of Related to Pathogenicity on Chinese Hickory Tree.

Trunk canker poses a major threat to the production of Chinese hickory tree ( Sarg.), which is primarily determined by Botryosphaeriaceae. In our previous work, we identified as the predominant pathogen of this disease. However, it is still unclear about corresponding gene families and mechanisms associated with 's pathogenicity on Chinese hickory tree. Here, we present a comparative analysis of high-quality genome assemblies of and other isolated pathogens, showing highly syntenic relationships between and its closely related species and the conservative evolution of the Botryosphaeriaceae family. Higher GC contents were found in the genomes of and three other isolated pathogens (, and ) compared to , , and . An investigation of genes specific to or expanded in revealed that one secreted glucanase, one orsellinic acid biosynthesis enzyme, and two MFS transporters positively regulated 's pathogenicity. We also observed an overrepresentation of viral integrase like gene and heterokaryon incompatibility proteins in the 's genome. In addition, we observed one LRR-domain-containing protein and two Sec-domain-containing proteins (Sec_1 and Sec_7) that underwent positive selection. This study will help to understand 's pathogenicity and potential influence on the infection of Chinese hickory, which will help in the development of disease control and ensure the security of Chinese hickory production.