Detection and distribution of NRPS genes in Eurotium spp. isolated from dark tea

Abstract:

[Objective] NRPS genes in 14 Eurotium spp. strains obtained from dark tea samples were detected. The potential of secondary metabolite biosynthesis mediated by some NRPS genes were predicted. Distributive characteristics of NRPS genes may be useful for understanding the genetic diversity of Eurotium spp.. [Methods] Fourteen Eurotium strains were obtained from dark tea samples. Fungal genomic DNA samples were extracted by IQS DNA extraction method. Distribution of 11 NRPS genes were detected by specific DNA primers for these strains by PCR and analyzed by DNA sequencing and sequence analyses. UPGMA was conducted to discuss distribution pattern of NRPS genes. [Results] Numbers of NRPS genes involved in Eurotium strains tested were ranged from 4 to 10. NRPS7 and CPS1 genes were detected from all the Eurotium strains, while NRPS2 and NRPS6 genes were only detected in few strains, and other NRPS genes diverse. Fw-30813-1, Fw-30813-4, Fw-30813-7 and Fw-30925-5 from the same tea brick were different each other in detection of NRPS1, NRPS2, NRPS3, NRPS4 and NRPS8 genes, demonstrating an extremely high genetic diversity in Eurotium spp. from dark teas. NRPS5 and NRPS8 genes were not detected from strain Fa-20719-3 from Fuzhuan samples made in Baishaxi, Hunan, while detected from all of 7 strains obtained from Fuzhuan samples made in Yiyang, Hunan. Distinct genetic differences were demonstrated among Eurotium strains obtained from separate manufactures and sites. [Conclusion] Detection and distribution and genetic diversity of NRPS genes were first reported from Eurotium strains obtained from Chinese dark tea. Detection of NRPS genes could be effective as an easy method to evaluate genetic diversity of Eurotium spp..