The Mitochondrial Genome of Cathaya argyrophylla Reaches 18.99 Mb: Analysis of Super-Large Mitochondrial Genomes in Pinaceae

• DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2410.07006
• Publication Date: 2024-10-09
• Authors: Kerui Huang; Wenbo Xu; Haoliang Hu; Xiaolong Jiang; Lei Sun; Wenyan Zhao; Binbin Long; Shaogang Fan; Zhibo Zhou; Ping Mo; Xiaofei Jiang; Jianhong Tian; Aihua Deng; Peng Xie; Yun Wang
• Keywords: Pinaceae

Mitochondrial genomes in the Pinaceae family are notable for their large size and structural complexity. In this study, we sequenced analyzed mitochondrial genome of Cathaya argyrophylla, an endangered endemic species, uncovering a 18.99 Mb, meaning largest reported to date. To investigate mechanisms behind exceptional size, conducted comparative analyses with other species possessing both small genomes, as well gymnosperms. We focused on repeat sequences, transposable element activity, RNA editing events, chloroplast-derived sequence transfers (mtpts), homology nuclear genomes. Our findings indicate that while argyrophylla extremely contain substantial amounts sequences show increased activity LINEs LTR retrotransposons, these factors alone do not fully account expansion. Notably, observed significant incorporation suggesting extensive plastid-to-mitochondrial DNA transfer may play crucial role enlargement. Additionally, exhibited distinct patterns limited similarity compared smaller These results suggest massive likely result multiple contributing factors, including transposon plastid incorporation. study enhances understanding evolution plants provides valuable genetic information conservation argyrophylla.