ARS | Publication request: Phylogenetic classification of Aureobasidium pullulans strains for production of pullulan and xylanase

Submitted to: RSU Research Conference
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: February 5, 2011
Publication Date: February 5, 2011
Citation: Manitchotpsit, P., Peterson, S.W., Leathers, T.D. 2011. Phylogenetic classification of Aureobasidium pullulans strains for production of pullulan and xylanase. Proceedings of the RSU Research Conference. Paper ID 2011-12. p. 25-30.

Interpretive Summary: Improved microbial germplasm is needed to enhance bioconversions of agricultural materials to high-value bioproducts. Certain microorganisms from the ARS Culture Collection were classified for the first time using molecular tools, and genetic groups were identified that produce high levels of valuable polysaccharides and enzymes. This work will be of interest to researchers developing new uses and value-added products from agricultural commodities and byproducts.

Technical Abstract: This study tests the hypothesis that phylogenetic classification can predict whether A. pullulans strains will produce useful levels of the commercial polysaccharide, pullulan, or the valuable enzyme, xylanase. To test this hypothesis, 19 strains of A. pullulans with previously described phenotypes were classified for the first time by phylogenetic analysis. Results showed that strains that produce high levels of pullulan or xylanase belong to certain phylogenetic groups (clades). This result supports the hypothesis and suggests that novel DNA screening methods could be developed to identify new and improved strains for production of commercial bioproducts.