Abstract
A reference genome sequence for Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii (Mirb.) Franco (Coastal Douglas-fir) is reported, thus providing a reference sequence for a third genus of the family Pinaceae. The contiguity and quality of the genome assembly far exceeds that of other conifer reference genome sequences (contig N50 = 44,136 bp and scaffold N50 = 340,704 bp). Incremental improvements in sequencing and assembly technologies are in part responsible for the higher quality reference genome, but it may also be due to a slightly lower exact repeat content in Douglas-fir vs. pine and spruce. Comparative genome annotation with angiosperm species reveals gene-family expansion and contraction in Douglas-fir and other conifers which may account for some of the major morphological and physiological differences between the two major plant groups. Notable differences in the size of the NDH-complex gene family and genes underlying the functional basis of shade tolerance/intolerance were observed. This reference genome sequence not only provides an important resource for Douglas-fir breeders and geneticists but also sheds additional light on the evolutionary processes that have led to the divergence of modern angiosperms from the more ancient gymnosperms.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 3157-3167 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics |
Volume | 7 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 1 2017 |
Keywords
- Annotation
- Conifer
- Genome assembly
- Gymnosperm
- Mega-genome
- Shade tolerance
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Genetics(clinical)