Genome and Transcriptome Analysis to Elucidate the Biocontrol Mechanism of XJ5 against .

Early blight, caused by , is an important disease affecting tomatoes. Biological control offers an environmentally friendly approach to controlling pathogens. Herein, we identified a strain XJ5 and investigated its biocontrol mechanism against . growth was significantly inhibited by XJ5, with the inhibition rate of cell-free culture supernatants reaching 82.3%. Furthermore, XJ5 crude protein extracts inhibited conidia germination and altered the mycelial morphology of . To uncover the potential biocontrol mechanism of XJ5, we analyzed its genome sequence and transcriptome. The genome of XJ5 comprised a 4.16 Mb circular chromosome and two circular plasmids. A total of 13 biosynthetic gene clusters and 127 genes encoding hydrolases were identified, suggestive of the ability of XJ5 to secrete antagonistic secondary metabolites and hydrolases. Transcript analysis revealed 174 differentially expressed genes on exposing to XJ5 crude protein extracts. The expression of genes related to chitin and mannose synthesis was downregulated, indicating that XJ5 metabolites may impact chitin and mannose synthesis in . Overall, these findings enhance our understanding of the interactions between and phytopathogens and pave the way for the agricultural application of this promising biocontrol agent.