Published July 23, 2024 | Version v1
Publication

Symmetric and asymmetric DNA N6-adenine methylation regulates different biological responses in Mucorales

Description

DNA N6-adenine methylation (6mA) has recently gained importance as an epigenetic modification in eukaryotes. Its function in lineages with high levels, such as early-diverging fungi (EDF), is of particular interest. Here, we investigated the biological significance and evolutionary implications of 6mA in EDF, which exhibit divergent evolutionary patterns in 6mA usage. The analysis of two Mucorales species displaying extreme 6mA usage reveals that species with high 6mA levels show symmetric methylation enriched in highly expressed genes. In contrast, species with low 6mA levels show mostly asymmetric 6mA. Interestingly, transcriptomic regulation throughout development and in response to environmental cues is associated with changes in the 6mA landscape. Furthermore, we identify an EDF-specific methyltransferase, likely originated from endosymbiotic bacteria, as responsible for asymmetric methylation, while an MTA-70 methylation complex performs symmetric methylation. The distinct phenotypes observed in the corresponding mutants reinforced the critical role of both types of 6mA in EDF.

Abstract

MCIN/AEI/ 10.13039/501100011033 y "FEDER Una manera de hacer Europa" de la Unión Europea - PID2021-124674NB-I00 y PID2021-128001OB-I00

Abstract

Fundación Séneca, Agencia de Ciencia y Tecnología de la Región de Murcia - 20897/PI/18 y 21969/PI/22

Abstract

Consejería de Transformación Económica, Industria, Conocimiento y Universidades de la Junta de Andalucía - P20-00622

Abstract

Office of Science of the US Department of Energy - DE-AC02-05CH11231

Additional details

Created:
July 24, 2024
Modified:
July 24, 2024