Putting Laccase Gene Differences on Genomic Level into Context: An Analysis of Botrytis cinerea Strains from Grapes

One of the most important crop pathogens is Botrytis cinerea. It overcomes plant defenses using laccase, an enzyme which is frequently researched. Yet the differences between strains regarding their laccase activity is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to analyze laccase genes in the context of the regionality, vintage, and laccase activity of the strains. Eight strains were analyzed using whole genome sequencing, and the laccase activity was assessed. The strains were differentiated by SSR-PCR. We looked at all 14 known laccase genome regions as well as the promoter and terminator regions using variant metrics and phylogenetic trees. The laccase genes seem to be correlated with the regionality of the strains rather than the laccase activity, which provides new understanding to the study of pathogen adaption in specific environments. Some of the laccase gene regions showed little to no evolutionary change, while other regions showed a great variety of changes. This research highlights taking different laccase gene regions into context. We provide fundamental information for further research. Further studies, especially on gene expression, could provide insightful information regarding the potential of pathogen infection.