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Genomic Analysis, Optimal Growth Conditions, Gene Expression, and Bioactivity of the Entomopathogenic Fungus Polycephalomyces nipponicus Isolate MK1201 (Ascomycota)

K. Sangdee, Prapassorn Thamhin, Siwawong Promsuntia, Kandarat Namatthaisong, Juthaporn Saengprajak, Jirapa Phetsom, T. Thanyasiriwat, A. Sirijariyawat et al.

International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 2026

Abstract

The entomopathogenic fungus Polycephalomyces nipponicus isolate MK1201, obtained from cicada nymph cadavers, produces bioactive compounds, but its genomic features remain largely unexplored. This study analyzed the whole genome of P. nipponicus isolate MK1201 using the Illumina platform, revealing a genome size of 29.85 Mb with a GC content of 53.74%. Secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters, including polyketide synthases (PKSs), non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs), and terpene synthases, were identified using antiSMASH. Notably, clusters linked to the biosynthesis of clavaric acid (anticancer) and ε-poly-L-lysine (antimicrobial) were detected. Optimal growth conditions were assessed, showing rapid growth on carbon-rich media and denser mycelial growth on nitrogen-supplemented media. Gene expression analysis confirmed the expression of the NRPS-like gene associated with ε-poly-L-lysine biosynthesis, with the highest expression observed in potato dextrose agar (PDA)-grown mycelia. No detectable expression of the terpene synthase gene associated with clavaric acid biosynthesis was found under the tested conditions. Mycelial extracts exhibited antioxidant activity, with the highest of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity in peptone- and malt extract-supplemented media [2.03 ± 0.03 and 2.00 ± 0.01 mg Trolox equivalents (TE)/g sample, respectively]. The 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) scavenging activity was highest in PDA…

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