Comparative Genomic Analysis of BRI3 Reveals Genes Potentially Associated with Efficient Antagonism of (Lib.) de Bary.

Background/objectives: has recently received increased attention as a potential biological agent because of its broad-spectrum antagonistic capacity against harmful bacteria and fungi. This study aims to thoroughly analyze the genomic characteristics of BRI3, thereby providing theoretical groundwork for the agronomic utilization of this strain.

Methods: In this work, we evaluated the beneficial traits of the newly isolated strain BRI3 via in vitro experiments, whole-genome sequencing, functional annotation, and comparative genomic analysis.

Results: BRI3 exhibits broad-spectrum antifungal activity against various soilborne pathogens, displays inhibitory effects comparable to those of the type strain FZB42, and exhibits particularly effective antagonism against (Lib.) de Bary. Whole-genome sequencing and assembly revealed that the genome of BRI3 contains one chromosome and two plasmids, which carry a large amount of genetic information. Moreover, 13 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) involved in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites were predicted within the BRI3 genome. Among these, two unique BGCs (cluster 11 and cluster 13), which were not previously reported in the genomes of other strains and could potentially encode novel metabolic products, were identified. The results of the comparative genomic analysis demonstrated the genomic structural conservation and genetic homogeneity of BRI3.

Conclusions: The unique characteristics and genomic data provide insights into the potential application of BRI3 as a biocontrol and probiotic agent.