Decoding Nature’s Toolbox: Long-Read DNA Sequencing Unveils the Biosynthetic Potential of Filamentous Fungi

During her PhD studies, Celine Petersen investigated different methods to extract high molecular weight DNA from filamentous fungi that are suitable for long-read sequencing. Whole genome sequencing gave an insight to the biosynthetic potential of different fungi. High quality genome assemblies within the Pencillium genus were combined to a pangenome to elucidate common characteristics and variations of the genus. Celine Petersen further established associations between candidate genes and natural products by statistical comparison of the Penicillium pangenome and metabolic profiling of the species involved. A proposed CRISPR/Cas9 system was utilized to validate the biological function.

The new research findings contribute to better understanding of fungal genetics and evolution. It further provides a workflow for the discovery of future biotechnological applications within filamentous fungi. The PhD study was completed at the Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Faculty of Engineering, Aalborg University.

This summary was prepared by the PhD student.