ARS | Publication request: Molecular Characterization of Penicillium Griseofulvum Genes Involved in Biosynthesis of the Mycotoxin Patulin

Submitted to: American Chemical Society National Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: August 20, 2009
Publication Date: August 20, 2009
Citation: Dombrink Kurtzman, M. 2009. Molecular Characterization of Penicillium Griseofulvum Genes Involved in Biosynthesis of the Mycotoxin Patulin [abstract]. American Chemical Society National Meeting. Ref. No. P-023. p. 445.

Technical Abstract: Fungal genes involved in biosynthesis of mycotoxins are frequently arranged in clusters. Fungi with the ability to synthesize the mycotoxin patulin are present throughout nature, predominantly in apples, pears, and products made from them. At least 15 fungal species have been described as capable of producing patulin, including Penicillium expansum, P. griseofulvum, Aspergillus clavatus, and Byssochlamys nivea. The majority of the genes in the patulin biosynthetic pathway have been identified and sequenced for P. griseofulvum NRRL 2159A by GenomeWalking, starting with the isoepoxydon dehydrogenase gene. Recently sequenced genes include 6-methyl salicylic acid synthase, cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase, and MFS transporter. The patulin biosynthetic genes in P. griseofulvum were in a different order and orientation compared to A. clavatus. This genetic information brings a new understanding to the biosynthetic pathways for patulin, and the pathway gene sequences can be used to identify the presence of patulin producers in fruit and fruit products.