Codon usage is the selective and nonrandom use of synonymous codons to encode amino acids in genes for proteins. The analysis of codon usage may improve the understanding of cocion preferences between different specie...Codon usage is the selective and nonrandom use of synonymous codons to encode amino acids in genes for proteins. The analysis of codon usage may improve the understanding of cocion preferences between different species and allow to rebuild the codons of exogenous genes to increase the expression efficiency of exogenous genes, Here, codon DNA sequence （CDS） of four poplar species, including Populus tremuloides Michx., P. tomentosa Carr., P. deltoides Marsh., and P. trichocarpa Torr. ＆ Gray., is used to analyze the relative frequency of synonymous codon （RFSC）. High-frequency codons are selected by high-frequency （HF） codon analysis. The results indicate that the codon usage is common for all four poplar species and the codon preference is quite similar among the four poplar species. However, CCT encoding for Pro, and ACT coding for Thr are the preferred codons in P. tremuloides and P. tomentosa, whereas CCA coding for Pro, and ACA coding for Thr are preferred in P. deltoides and P. trichocarpa The codons such as TGC coding for Cys, TTC coding for Phe, and AAG coding for Lys, are preferred in the poplar species except P trichocarpa. GAG coding for Glu is preferred only in P deltoides, while the other three poplar species prefer to use GAA. The commonness of preferred codon allows exogenous gene designed by the preferred cocion of one of the different poplar species to be used in other poplar species.展开更多
The synonymous codon usage in the translational initiation and termination regions of genes of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus and five other viruses in Coronaviridae was systematically analyzed.T...The synonymous codon usage in the translational initiation and termination regions of genes of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus and five other viruses in Coronaviridae was systematically analyzed.The results indicate that most minor codons for these coronaviruses are preferentially used in the initial and terminal region.The minor codons preferentially used in the initial region are thought to have a negative effect on gene expression,which can be explained by the minor codon modulator hypothesis.It also indicates that the minor codons preferentially used in the terminal region may regulate the level of gene expression.The proposed results strongly imply that the minor codon modulator hypothesis can be applied to both some bacteria and some viruses.展开更多
The pattern of codon usage in the chloroplast genome of Populus alba was investigated. Correspondence analysis （a commonly used multivariate statistical approach） and method of effective number of codons （ENc）-plo...The pattern of codon usage in the chloroplast genome of Populus alba was investigated. Correspondence analysis （a commonly used multivariate statistical approach） and method of effective number of codons （ENc）-plot were conducted to analyze synonymous codon usage. The results of correspondence analysis showed that the distribution of genes on the major axis was significantly correlated with the frequency of use of G＋C in synonymously variable third position of sense codon （GC3S）, （r=0.349）, and the positions of genes on the axis 2 and axis 3 were significantly correlated with CAI （r=-0.348, p〈0.01 and r=0.602, p〈0.01）. The ENc for most genes was similar to that for the expected ENc based on the GC3s, but several genes with low ENc values were lying below the expected curve. All of these data indicated that codon usage was dominated by a mutational bias in chloroplast gcnome ofP. alba. The selection in nature for translational efficiency only played a minor role in shaping codon usage in the chloroplast genome ofP alba.展开更多
Codon usage in chloroplast genome of six seed plants （Arabidopsis thaliana, Populus alba, Zea mays, Triticum aestivum, Pinus koraiensis and Cycas taitungensis） was analyzed to find general patterns of codon usage in...Codon usage in chloroplast genome of six seed plants （Arabidopsis thaliana, Populus alba, Zea mays, Triticum aestivum, Pinus koraiensis and Cycas taitungensis） was analyzed to find general patterns of codon usage in chloroplast genomes of seed plants. The results show that chloroplast genomes of the six seed plants had similar codon usage patterns, with a strong bias towards a high representation of NNA and NNT codons. In chloroplast genomes of the six seed plants, the effective number of codons （ENC） for most genes was similar to that of the expected ENC based on the GC content at the third codon position, but several genes with low ENC values were laying below the expected curve. All of these data indicate that codon usage was dominated by a mutational bias in chloroplast genomes of seed plants and that selection appeared to be limited to a subset of genes and to only subtly affect codon usage. Meantime, four, six, eight, nine, ten and 12 codons were defined as the optimal codons in chloroplast genomes of the six seed plants.展开更多
A comparative analysis of the codon usage bias was conducted in Methanosarcina mazei str. Goel and two related Euryarchaeota microorganisms （Picrophilus torridus str. DSM 9790 and Natronomonas pharaonis str. DSM 2160...A comparative analysis of the codon usage bias was conducted in Methanosarcina mazei str. Goel and two related Euryarchaeota microorganisms （Picrophilus torridus str. DSM 9790 and Natronomonas pharaonis str. DSM 2160）. Results revealed that synonymous codon usage in Methanosarcina mazei str. Goel was less biased, which was highly correlated with the GC3S value. And the codon usage patterns were phylogenetically conserved among those Euryarchaeota microorganisms. By employing a hierarchical clustering analysis, it can be seen that it is more the species than the gene function that determines their gene codon usage pattems. Considering that those microorganisms live in different environments where the pH conditions vary quite a lot, it can be presumed that their living environments, especially the pH conditions, play an important role in determining those microorganisms＇ codon usage pattems.展开更多
Apple（Malus×domestica） has been proposed as an important woody plant and the major cultivated fruit trees in temperate regions. Apple whole genome sequencing has been completed, which provided an excellent oppo...Apple（Malus×domestica） has been proposed as an important woody plant and the major cultivated fruit trees in temperate regions. Apple whole genome sequencing has been completed, which provided an excellent opportunity for genome-wide analysis of the synonymous codon usage patterns. In this study, a multivariate bioinformatics analysis was performed to reveal the characteristics of synonymous codon usage and the main factors affecting codon bias in apple. The neutrality, correspondence, and correlation analyses were performed by Codon W and SPSS（Statistical Product and Service Solutions） programs, indicating that the apple genome codon usage patterns were affected by mutational pressure and selective constraint. Meanwhile, coding sequence length and the hydrophobicity of proteins could also influence the codon usage patterns. In short, codon usage pattern analysis and determination of optimal codons has laid an important theoretical basis for genetic engineering, gene prediction and molecular evolution studies in apple.展开更多
Synonymous codon usage pattern presumably reflects gene expression optimization as a result of molecular evolution. Though much attention has been paid to various model organisms ranging from prokaryotes to eukaryotes...Synonymous codon usage pattern presumably reflects gene expression optimization as a result of molecular evolution. Though much attention has been paid to various model organisms ranging from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, codon usage has yet been extensively investigated for model legume Medicago truncatula. In present study, 39 531 available coding sequences （CDSs） from M. truncatula were examined for codon usage bias （CUB）. Based on analyses including neutrality plots, effective number of codons plots, and correlations between optimal codons frequency and codon adaptation index, we conclude that natural selection is a major driving force in M. truncatula CUB. We have identified 30 optimal codons encoding 18 amino acids based on relative synonymous codon usage. These optimal codons characteristically end with A or T, except for AGG and TTG encoding arginine and leucine respectively. Optimal codon usage is positively correlated with the GC content at three nucleotide positions of codons and the GC content of CDSs. The abundance of expressed sequence tag is a proxy for gene expression intensity in the legume, but has no relatedness with either CDS length or GC content. Collectively, we unravel the synonymous codon usage pattern in M. truncatula, which may serve as the valuable information on genetic engineering of the model legume and forage crop.展开更多
Burkholderia mallei is regarded as a potential biological weapon by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.In this study,the main factors shaping codon usage in the genome of B.mallei ATCC 23344 were firstly r...Burkholderia mallei is regarded as a potential biological weapon by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.In this study,the main factors shaping codon usage in the genome of B.mallei ATCC 23344 were firstly reported.The results showed that the primary trend in codon usage variation in the B.mallei is due to translational selection;while compositional mutation bias is relatively the weaker influence and the hydrophobicity of each protein and gene length are only the minor influences.At the same time,21 codons defined firstly as'optimal codons'might provide more useful information for the expression of target genes and development of a vaccine to prevent glanders.展开更多
In the present study, we examined the codon usage bias between pseudorabies virus （PRV） US1 gene and the USl-like genes of 20 reference alphaherpesviruses. Comparative analysis showed noticeable disparities of the s...In the present study, we examined the codon usage bias between pseudorabies virus （PRV） US1 gene and the USl-like genes of 20 reference alphaherpesviruses. Comparative analysis showed noticeable disparities of the synonymous codon usage bias in the 21 alphaherpesviruses, indicated by codon adaptation index, effective number of codons （ENc） and GC3s value. The codon usage pattern of PRV US1 gene was phylogenetically conserved and similar to that of the USl-like genes of the genus Varicellovirus of alphaherpesvirus, with a strong bias towards the codons with C and G at the third codon position. Cluster analysis of codon usage pattern of PRV US1 gene with its reference alphaherpesviruses demonstrated that the codon usage bias of USl-like genes of 21 alphaherpesviruses had a very close relation with their gene functions. ENc-plot revealed that the genetic heterogeneity in PRV US1 gene and the 20 reference alphaherpesviruses was constrained by G＋C content, as well as the gene length. In addition, comparison of codon preferences in the US1 gene of PRV with those ofE. coli, yeast and human revealed that there were 50 codons showing distinct usage differences between PRV and yeast, 49 between PRV and human, but 48 between PRV and E. coil Although there were slightly fewer differences in codon usages between E.coli and PRV, the difference is unlikely to be statistically significant, and experimental studies are necessary to establish the most suitable expression system for PRV US1. In conclusion, these results may improve our understanding of the evolution, pathogenesis and functional studies of PRV, as well as contributing to the area of herpesvirus research or even studies with other viruses.展开更多
A novel subtype of influenza A virus 09H1N1 has rapidly spread across the world. Evolutionary analyses of this virus have revealed that 09H1N1 is a triple reassortant of segments from swine, avian and human influenza ...A novel subtype of influenza A virus 09H1N1 has rapidly spread across the world. Evolutionary analyses of this virus have revealed that 09H1N1 is a triple reassortant of segments from swine, avian and human influenza viruses. In this study, we investigated factors shaping the codon usage bias of 09H1N1 and carried out cluster analysis of 60 strains of influenza A virus from different subtypes based on their codon usage bias. We discovered that more preferentially used codons of 09H1N1 are A-ended or U-ended, and the intra-genomic codon usage bias of 09H1N1 is quite low. Base composition constraint, dinucleotide biases and translational selection are the main factors influencing the codon usage bias of 09H1N1. At the genome level, we find that the codon usage bias of 09H1N1 is similar to H1N1 (A/swine/Kansas/77778/2007H1N1), H9N2 from Asia, H1N2 from Asia and North America and H3N2 from North America. Our results provide insight for understanding the processes governing evolution, regulation of gene expression, and revealing the evolution of 09H1N1.展开更多
In this study,a comparative analysis of the codon usage bias was performed in Aeropyrum pernix K1 and two other phylogenetically related Crenarchaeota microorganisms(i.e.,Pyrobaculum aerophilum str.IM2 and Sulfolobus ...In this study,a comparative analysis of the codon usage bias was performed in Aeropyrum pernix K1 and two other phylogenetically related Crenarchaeota microorganisms(i.e.,Pyrobaculum aerophilum str.IM2 and Sulfolobus acidocaldarius DSM 639).The results indicated that the synonymous codon usage in A.pernix K1 was less biased,which was highly correlated with the GC3s value.The codon usage patterns were phylogenetically conserved among these Crenarchaeota microorganisms.Comparatively,it is the species function rather than the gene function that determines their gene codon usage patterns.A.pernix K1,P.aerophilum str.IM2,and S.acidocaldarius DSM 639 live in differently extreme conditions.It is presumed that the hving environment played an important role in determining the codon usage pattern of these microorganisms.Besides,there was no strain-specific codon usage among these microorganisms.The extent of codon bias in A.pernix K1 and S.acidocaldarius DSM 639 were highly correlated with the gene expression level,but no such association was detected in P.aerophilum str.IM2 genomes.展开更多
Codon usage bias varies considerably among genomes and even within the genes of the same genome. In eukaryotic organisms, energy production in the form of oxidative phosphorylation （OXPHOS） is the only process under...Codon usage bias varies considerably among genomes and even within the genes of the same genome. In eukaryotic organisms, energy production in the form of oxidative phosphorylation （OXPHOS） is the only process under control of both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. Although factors affecting codon usage in a single genome have been studied, this has not occurred when both interactional genomes are involved. Consequently, we investigated whether or not other factors influence codon usage of coevolved genes. We used Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. Our χ^2 test on the number of codons of nuclear and mitochondrial genes involved in the OXPHOS system was significantly different （χ^2= 7945.16, P 〈 0.01）. A plot of effective number of codons against GC3s content of nuclear genes showed that few genes lie on the expected curve, indicating that codon usage was random. Correspondence analysis indicated a significant correlation between axis 1 and codon adaptation index （R = 0.947, P 〈 0.01） in every nuclear gene sequence. Thus, codon usage bias of nuclear genes appeared to be affected by translational selection. Correlation between axis 1 coordinates and GC content （R = 0.814, P 〈 0.01） indicated that the codon usage of nuclear genes was also affected by GC composition. Analysis of mitochondrial genes did not reveal a significant correlation between axis 1 and any parameter. Statistical analyses indicated that codon usages of both nDNA and mtDNA were subjected to context-dependent mutations.展开更多
The codon usage bias and the base compositions in the available 49 complete fish rhabdovirus genome sequences were investigated. The high correlation between GC12% and GC3% suggested that mutational pressure rather th...The codon usage bias and the base compositions in the available 49 complete fish rhabdovirus genome sequences were investigated. The high correlation between GC12% and GC3% suggested that mutational pressure rather than natural selection was the main factor determining the codon usage and base component in fish rhabdovirns, most of the spots lying below the expected curve （ ENC vs GC3% ） also suggested that codon usage bias in these 49 genomes was influenced by mutational pressure in codon usage pattern. Through PCA analysis based on RSCU, all ORFs in the 49 fish rhabdoviurs genomes were clustered into two parts, and this result showed that hosts played a role in codon usage pattern of fish rhabdovirns genomes. Further, comparison between SVCV, INHV, VHSV and their hosts suggested the effect of natural host on the codon usage pattern took part in the evolution process of fish rhabdovirns. This study represents the most comprehensive analysis to date for fish rhabdovirus eodon usage patterns.展开更多
The flower-meristem-identity gene APETALA2(AP2), one of class-A genes, is involved in the establishment of the floral meristem and the forming of sepals and petals. Codon usage bias(CUB) identifies differences among s...The flower-meristem-identity gene APETALA2(AP2), one of class-A genes, is involved in the establishment of the floral meristem and the forming of sepals and petals. Codon usage bias(CUB) identifies differences among species, meanwhile dynamic analysis of base composition can identify the molecular mechanisms and evolutionary relationships of a specific gene. In this study, eight coding sequences(CDS) of AP2 gene were selected from different plant species using the Gen Bank database. Their nucleotide composition(GC content), genetic index, relative synonymous codon usage(RSCU) and relative codon usage bias(RCUB) were calculated with R Software to compare codon bias and base composition dynamics of AP2 gene codon usage patterns in different plant species. The results showed that the usage of AP2 gene codons from different plant species were influened by GC bias, especially GC3 s. Overall, base composition analysis indicated that the usage frequency of codon AT in the gene coding sequence was higher than GC among AP2 gene CDS from different plant species. Furthermore, most AP2 gene CDSs ended with AT; AGA, GCU and UGU had relatively high RSCU values as the most dominant codon; the usage characteristic of the AP2 gene codon in Malus domestica was similar to that of Vitis vinifera; Paeonia lactiflora was similar to Paeonia suffruticosa and Solanum lycopersicum was similar to Petunia×hybrida. There was a moderate preference in the usage of AP2 gene codon among different plant species from relatively low frequency of optimal codon(Fop) values and high effective number of codons(ENC) value. This study has revealed the usage characteristics of the AP2 gene codon from the comparision of AP2 gene codon preference and base dynamics in different plant species and provide a platform for further study towards transgenic engineering and codon optimization.展开更多
The relationship between the codon usage bias, gene expression level and the AUG context(from -20 to +6 positions relative to the initiator AUG codon) was examined in 541unigene sequences of rice. A significant correl...The relationship between the codon usage bias, gene expression level and the AUG context(from -20 to +6 positions relative to the initiator AUG codon) was examined in 541unigene sequences of rice. A significant correlation for CAI values (codon adaptationindex) was observed at five nucleotide positions (-19, -18, -9, -4, +5), eight (-19, -18,-14, -9, -6, -4, -1, +5) for CPP (codon preference parameter), and seven (-18, -16, -15,-9, -7, -1, +6) for mRNA abundance in the flanking sequence of the initiator AUG codonrespectively, but a significantly positive correlation for both CAI and CPP at twopositions (-4 and +5), indicating that both those positions are evolutionally under thenatural selection constraint at the translational level. By site-directed mutagenesis atseven specific positions (-18, -16, -15, -9, -7, -1 and +6) for allergenic protein thathad the highest mRNA abundance in this study, its expression level decreased dramatically63.3 and 72.5% respectively, indicating the importance of those 7 positions for geneexpression. A highly positive correlation (r=0.625, P<0.01) between AUGCAI and GCcontent in the flanking sequence of the initiator AUG codon showed a more effectivehigher GC content on translation initiation efficiency. The strong preference for G orC at those 8 positions (-6, -5, -3, -2, -1, +4, +5 and +6) in the AUG context suggestedthat an important factor in modulation of the translation efficiency, as well assynonymous codon usage bias, particularly in highly expressed genes.展开更多
Sweet potatoes are significant cash crops,however,their yield and quality are greatly compromised by viral diseases.In this study,the complete genomic sequences of two Sweet Potato Virus 2(SPV2)isolates from infected ...Sweet potatoes are significant cash crops,however,their yield and quality are greatly compromised by viral diseases.In this study,the complete genomic sequences of two Sweet Potato Virus 2(SPV2)isolates from infected sweet potato leaves in the Shandong(designated as SPV2-SDYT,GenBank No.PQ855660.1)and Jiangsu(designated as SPV2-JSXZ,GenBank No.PQ855661.1)provinces in China were obtained using 5′RACE and RT-PCR amplification.Consistency,phylogeny,codon usage bias,recombination,and selection pressure analyses were conducted using the SPV2-SDYT and SPV2-JSXZ genome sequences.The complete genome sequences of SPV2-SDYT and SPV2-JSXZ were 10561 nucleotides(nt)in length,with respective nucleotide and amino acid identities of 99.25%and 99.12%,respectively.Both isolates were closely related to the SPV2 isolate from China(SPV2-LN).In both SPV2-SDYT and SPV2-JSXZ,the identity of the P1 protein was the highest,whereas that of the P3 protein was the lowest.There were 26 codons with relatively synonymous codon usage(RSCU)values greater than 1 in SPV2-SDYT and 27 codons with RSCU values greater than 1 in SPV2-JSXZ.High-frequency codons in their genomes were predominantly found to end with A/U.Recombination analysis revealed no major recombination sites in either SPV2-SDYT or SPV2-JSXZ.Further selection pressure analysis showed that the non-synonymous substitution rate/synonymous substitution rate(dN/dS)value of all 10 SPV2 proteins was less than 1.This is the first report on the evolutionary relationships of the 17 known SPV2 isolates.Our findings lay the molecular groundwork for preventing and controlling SPV2 infection in root-tuber crops.These findings also contribute to our understanding of the spread and evolution of SPV2,its pathogenic mechanisms,and the development of antiviral strategies against it.展开更多
[Objectives]The 14-3-3 proteins are a class of highly conserved adapter proteins in eukaryotes that play a central role in signal transduction by recognizing phosphorylated target proteins and are crucial for plant gr...[Objectives]The 14-3-3 proteins are a class of highly conserved adapter proteins in eukaryotes that play a central role in signal transduction by recognizing phosphorylated target proteins and are crucial for plant growth and development.Chinese chestnut(Castanea mollissima)is an important woody grain crop in China.This study aimed to systematically identify the 14-3-3 gene family in chestnut and investigate their fundamental characteristics and functional clues,thereby laying a foundation for further elucidating the biological functions of this family in Chinese chestnut.[Methods]Using a combination of bioinformatics and molecular biology approaches,we conducted a comprehensive identification of the 14-3-3 family members in Chinese chestnut.Subsequently,we systematically analyzed their physicochemical properties,gene structures,conserved domains and motifs,gene duplication events,phylogenetic relationships,tissue-specific expression patterns,and codon usage bias.[Results]A total of nine 14-3-3 family members,designated CmGRF1 to CmGRF9,were identified and classified into two subgroups:epsilon(5 members)and non-epsilon(4 members).All CmGRF proteins were predicted to be hydrophilic.Phylogenetic analysis revealed a strong correlation between the clustering of CmGRFs and their respective gene structures,conserved domains,and motif compositions.Transcriptome data analysis indicated significant differences in the expression levels of different CmGRF members across various tissues and developmental stages.Codon preference analysis showed that CmGRFs tend to use codons ending with A/U,and their evolution is primarily driven by natural selection pressure.[Conclusions]This study provides the first genome-wide systematic analysis of the gene family in Chinese chestnut.The findings offer important theoretical insights and candidate genes for further research into the specific functions of these family members in chestnut growth,development,and stress responses.展开更多
In many organisms, the difference in codon usage patterns among genes reflects variation in local base compositional biases and the intensity of natural selection. In this study, a comparative analysis was performed t...In many organisms, the difference in codon usage patterns among genes reflects variation in local base compositional biases and the intensity of natural selection. In this study, a comparative analysis was performed to investigate the characteristics of codon bias and factors in shaping the codon usage patterns among mitochondrion, chloroplast and nuclear genes in common wheat （Triticum aestivum L.）. GC contents in nuclear genes were higher than that in mitochondrion and chloroplast genes. The neutrality and correspondence analyses indicated that the codon usage in nuclear genes would be a result of relative strong mutational bias, while the codon usage patterns of mitochondrion and chloroplast genes were more conserved in GC content and influenced by translation level. The Parity Rule 2 （PR2） plot analysis showed that pyrimidines were used more frequently than purines at the third codon position in the three genomes. In addition, using a new alterative strategy, 11, 12, and 24 triplets were defined as preferred codons in the mitochondrion, chloroplast and nuclear genes, respectively. These findings suggested that the mitochondrion, chloroplast and nuclear genes shared particularly different features of codon usage and evolutionary constraints.展开更多
Transposable elements （TEs） are mobile genetic entities ubiquitously distributed in nearly all genomes. High frequency of codons ending in A/T in TEs has been previously observed in some species. In this study, the ...Transposable elements （TEs） are mobile genetic entities ubiquitously distributed in nearly all genomes. High frequency of codons ending in A/T in TEs has been previously observed in some species. In this study, the biases in nucleotide composition and codon usage of TE transposases and host nuclear genes were investigated in the AT-rich genome of Arabidopsis thaliana and the GC-rich genome of Oryza sativa. Codons ending in A/T are more frequently used by TEs compared with their host nuclear genes. A remarkable positive correlation between highly expressed nuclear genes and C/G-ending codons were detected in O. sativa （r=0.944 and 0.839, respectively, P〈0.0001） but not in A. thaliana, indicating a close association between the GC content and gene expression level in monocot species. In both species, TE codon usage biases are similar to that of weakly expressed genes. The expression and activity of TEs may be strictly controlled in plant genomes. Mutation bias and selection pressure have simultaneously acted on the TE evolution in A. thaliana and O. sativa. The consistently observed biases of nucleotide composition and codon usage of TEs may also provide a useful clue to accurately detect TE sequences in different species.展开更多
基金This work was supported by the National Major Basic Research and Development Program(No.TG1999016004)Jiangsu Provincial Natural Science Foundation(No.BK2003213).
文摘Codon usage is the selective and nonrandom use of synonymous codons to encode amino acids in genes for proteins. The analysis of codon usage may improve the understanding of cocion preferences between different species and allow to rebuild the codons of exogenous genes to increase the expression efficiency of exogenous genes, Here, codon DNA sequence （CDS） of four poplar species, including Populus tremuloides Michx., P. tomentosa Carr., P. deltoides Marsh., and P. trichocarpa Torr. ＆ Gray., is used to analyze the relative frequency of synonymous codon （RFSC）. High-frequency codons are selected by high-frequency （HF） codon analysis. The results indicate that the codon usage is common for all four poplar species and the codon preference is quite similar among the four poplar species. However, CCT encoding for Pro, and ACT coding for Thr are the preferred codons in P. tremuloides and P. tomentosa, whereas CCA coding for Pro, and ACA coding for Thr are preferred in P. deltoides and P. trichocarpa The codons such as TGC coding for Cys, TTC coding for Phe, and AAG coding for Lys, are preferred in the poplar species except P trichocarpa. GAG coding for Glu is preferred only in P deltoides, while the other three poplar species prefer to use GAA. The commonness of preferred codon allows exogenous gene designed by the preferred cocion of one of the different poplar species to be used in other poplar species.
文摘The synonymous codon usage in the translational initiation and termination regions of genes of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus and five other viruses in Coronaviridae was systematically analyzed.The results indicate that most minor codons for these coronaviruses are preferentially used in the initial and terminal region.The minor codons preferentially used in the initial region are thought to have a negative effect on gene expression,which can be explained by the minor codon modulator hypothesis.It also indicates that the minor codons preferentially used in the terminal region may regulate the level of gene expression.The proposed results strongly imply that the minor codon modulator hypothesis can be applied to both some bacteria and some viruses.
基金supported by the National High Tech Development Project of Chinathe 863 Program (Grant Nos.2007AA02Z329)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos.20060213024).
文摘The pattern of codon usage in the chloroplast genome of Populus alba was investigated. Correspondence analysis （a commonly used multivariate statistical approach） and method of effective number of codons （ENc）-plot were conducted to analyze synonymous codon usage. The results of correspondence analysis showed that the distribution of genes on the major axis was significantly correlated with the frequency of use of G＋C in synonymously variable third position of sense codon （GC3S）, （r=0.349）, and the positions of genes on the axis 2 and axis 3 were significantly correlated with CAI （r=-0.348, p〈0.01 and r=0.602, p〈0.01）. The ENc for most genes was similar to that for the expected ENc based on the GC3s, but several genes with low ENc values were lying below the expected curve. All of these data indicated that codon usage was dominated by a mutational bias in chloroplast gcnome ofP. alba. The selection in nature for translational efficiency only played a minor role in shaping codon usage in the chloroplast genome ofP alba.
基金supported in part by the Hi-Tech Re-search and Development Program of China ("863" Program) (No. 2007AA02Z329)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 20060213024)
文摘Codon usage in chloroplast genome of six seed plants （Arabidopsis thaliana, Populus alba, Zea mays, Triticum aestivum, Pinus koraiensis and Cycas taitungensis） was analyzed to find general patterns of codon usage in chloroplast genomes of seed plants. The results show that chloroplast genomes of the six seed plants had similar codon usage patterns, with a strong bias towards a high representation of NNA and NNT codons. In chloroplast genomes of the six seed plants, the effective number of codons （ENC） for most genes was similar to that of the expected ENC based on the GC content at the third codon position, but several genes with low ENC values were laying below the expected curve. All of these data indicate that codon usage was dominated by a mutational bias in chloroplast genomes of seed plants and that selection appeared to be limited to a subset of genes and to only subtly affect codon usage. Meantime, four, six, eight, nine, ten and 12 codons were defined as the optimal codons in chloroplast genomes of the six seed plants.
文摘A comparative analysis of the codon usage bias was conducted in Methanosarcina mazei str. Goel and two related Euryarchaeota microorganisms （Picrophilus torridus str. DSM 9790 and Natronomonas pharaonis str. DSM 2160）. Results revealed that synonymous codon usage in Methanosarcina mazei str. Goel was less biased, which was highly correlated with the GC3S value. And the codon usage patterns were phylogenetically conserved among those Euryarchaeota microorganisms. By employing a hierarchical clustering analysis, it can be seen that it is more the species than the gene function that determines their gene codon usage pattems. Considering that those microorganisms live in different environments where the pH conditions vary quite a lot, it can be presumed that their living environments, especially the pH conditions, play an important role in determining those microorganisms＇ codon usage pattems.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31401822)
文摘Apple（Malus×domestica） has been proposed as an important woody plant and the major cultivated fruit trees in temperate regions. Apple whole genome sequencing has been completed, which provided an excellent opportunity for genome-wide analysis of the synonymous codon usage patterns. In this study, a multivariate bioinformatics analysis was performed to reveal the characteristics of synonymous codon usage and the main factors affecting codon bias in apple. The neutrality, correspondence, and correlation analyses were performed by Codon W and SPSS（Statistical Product and Service Solutions） programs, indicating that the apple genome codon usage patterns were affected by mutational pressure and selective constraint. Meanwhile, coding sequence length and the hydrophobicity of proteins could also influence the codon usage patterns. In short, codon usage pattern analysis and determination of optimal codons has laid an important theoretical basis for genetic engineering, gene prediction and molecular evolution studies in apple.
基金supported by the National Basic Research Program of China (2014CB138702)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31502001)
文摘Synonymous codon usage pattern presumably reflects gene expression optimization as a result of molecular evolution. Though much attention has been paid to various model organisms ranging from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, codon usage has yet been extensively investigated for model legume Medicago truncatula. In present study, 39 531 available coding sequences （CDSs） from M. truncatula were examined for codon usage bias （CUB）. Based on analyses including neutrality plots, effective number of codons plots, and correlations between optimal codons frequency and codon adaptation index, we conclude that natural selection is a major driving force in M. truncatula CUB. We have identified 30 optimal codons encoding 18 amino acids based on relative synonymous codon usage. These optimal codons characteristically end with A or T, except for AGG and TTG encoding arginine and leucine respectively. Optimal codon usage is positively correlated with the GC content at three nucleotide positions of codons and the GC content of CDSs. The abundance of expressed sequence tag is a proxy for gene expression intensity in the legume, but has no relatedness with either CDS length or GC content. Collectively, we unravel the synonymous codon usage pattern in M. truncatula, which may serve as the valuable information on genetic engineering of the model legume and forage crop.
文摘Burkholderia mallei is regarded as a potential biological weapon by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.In this study,the main factors shaping codon usage in the genome of B.mallei ATCC 23344 were firstly reported.The results showed that the primary trend in codon usage variation in the B.mallei is due to translational selection;while compositional mutation bias is relatively the weaker influence and the hydrophobicity of each protein and gene length are only the minor influences.At the same time,21 codons defined firstly as'optimal codons'might provide more useful information for the expression of target genes and development of a vaccine to prevent glanders.
基金supported by grants from the Scientific Research Foundation for the Ph.D.,Guangzhou Medical University(2011C20)National Natural Science Foundation of China(31200120)+1 种基金Medical Scientific Research Foundation of Guangdong Province,China(B2012165)the Guangzhou city-level key disciplines and specialties of Immunology(B127007)
文摘In the present study, we examined the codon usage bias between pseudorabies virus （PRV） US1 gene and the USl-like genes of 20 reference alphaherpesviruses. Comparative analysis showed noticeable disparities of the synonymous codon usage bias in the 21 alphaherpesviruses, indicated by codon adaptation index, effective number of codons （ENc） and GC3s value. The codon usage pattern of PRV US1 gene was phylogenetically conserved and similar to that of the USl-like genes of the genus Varicellovirus of alphaherpesvirus, with a strong bias towards the codons with C and G at the third codon position. Cluster analysis of codon usage pattern of PRV US1 gene with its reference alphaherpesviruses demonstrated that the codon usage bias of USl-like genes of 21 alphaherpesviruses had a very close relation with their gene functions. ENc-plot revealed that the genetic heterogeneity in PRV US1 gene and the 20 reference alphaherpesviruses was constrained by G＋C content, as well as the gene length. In addition, comparison of codon preferences in the US1 gene of PRV with those ofE. coli, yeast and human revealed that there were 50 codons showing distinct usage differences between PRV and yeast, 49 between PRV and human, but 48 between PRV and E. coil Although there were slightly fewer differences in codon usages between E.coli and PRV, the difference is unlikely to be statistically significant, and experimental studies are necessary to establish the most suitable expression system for PRV US1. In conclusion, these results may improve our understanding of the evolution, pathogenesis and functional studies of PRV, as well as contributing to the area of herpesvirus research or even studies with other viruses.
文摘A novel subtype of influenza A virus 09H1N1 has rapidly spread across the world. Evolutionary analyses of this virus have revealed that 09H1N1 is a triple reassortant of segments from swine, avian and human influenza viruses. In this study, we investigated factors shaping the codon usage bias of 09H1N1 and carried out cluster analysis of 60 strains of influenza A virus from different subtypes based on their codon usage bias. We discovered that more preferentially used codons of 09H1N1 are A-ended or U-ended, and the intra-genomic codon usage bias of 09H1N1 is quite low. Base composition constraint, dinucleotide biases and translational selection are the main factors influencing the codon usage bias of 09H1N1. At the genome level, we find that the codon usage bias of 09H1N1 is similar to H1N1 (A/swine/Kansas/77778/2007H1N1), H9N2 from Asia, H1N2 from Asia and North America and H3N2 from North America. Our results provide insight for understanding the processes governing evolution, regulation of gene expression, and revealing the evolution of 09H1N1.
基金The work is supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.60121101).
文摘In this study,a comparative analysis of the codon usage bias was performed in Aeropyrum pernix K1 and two other phylogenetically related Crenarchaeota microorganisms(i.e.,Pyrobaculum aerophilum str.IM2 and Sulfolobus acidocaldarius DSM 639).The results indicated that the synonymous codon usage in A.pernix K1 was less biased,which was highly correlated with the GC3s value.The codon usage patterns were phylogenetically conserved among these Crenarchaeota microorganisms.Comparatively,it is the species function rather than the gene function that determines their gene codon usage patterns.A.pernix K1,P.aerophilum str.IM2,and S.acidocaldarius DSM 639 live in differently extreme conditions.It is presumed that the hving environment played an important role in determining the codon usage pattern of these microorganisms.Besides,there was no strain-specific codon usage among these microorganisms.The extent of codon bias in A.pernix K1 and S.acidocaldarius DSM 639 were highly correlated with the gene expression level,but no such association was detected in P.aerophilum str.IM2 genomes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.30770302 and 30570970)the Program of Ministry of Science and Technology of the Republic of China (No.2006FY110500)partially by the National Science Fund for Fostering Talents in Basic Research (NSFC-J0630964/J0109)
文摘Codon usage bias varies considerably among genomes and even within the genes of the same genome. In eukaryotic organisms, energy production in the form of oxidative phosphorylation （OXPHOS） is the only process under control of both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. Although factors affecting codon usage in a single genome have been studied, this has not occurred when both interactional genomes are involved. Consequently, we investigated whether or not other factors influence codon usage of coevolved genes. We used Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. Our χ^2 test on the number of codons of nuclear and mitochondrial genes involved in the OXPHOS system was significantly different （χ^2= 7945.16, P 〈 0.01）. A plot of effective number of codons against GC3s content of nuclear genes showed that few genes lie on the expected curve, indicating that codon usage was random. Correspondence analysis indicated a significant correlation between axis 1 and codon adaptation index （R = 0.947, P 〈 0.01） in every nuclear gene sequence. Thus, codon usage bias of nuclear genes appeared to be affected by translational selection. Correlation between axis 1 coordinates and GC content （R = 0.814, P 〈 0.01） indicated that the codon usage of nuclear genes was also affected by GC composition. Analysis of mitochondrial genes did not reveal a significant correlation between axis 1 and any parameter. Statistical analyses indicated that codon usages of both nDNA and mtDNA were subjected to context-dependent mutations.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31402347)Guangdong Special Marine Fishery Science and Technology Project(A201701C04)+3 种基金"Molecular epidemiological study of Cy HV-3 in Guangdong Province",2016 Guangdong Special Funds for Fish DiseasesGuangzhou Science and Technology Plan Projects(201707010216)Guangdong Science and Technology Plan Projects(2017A020224019)Guangdong Science and Technology Plan Projects(2016A020210029)
文摘The codon usage bias and the base compositions in the available 49 complete fish rhabdovirus genome sequences were investigated. The high correlation between GC12% and GC3% suggested that mutational pressure rather than natural selection was the main factor determining the codon usage and base component in fish rhabdovirns, most of the spots lying below the expected curve （ ENC vs GC3% ） also suggested that codon usage bias in these 49 genomes was influenced by mutational pressure in codon usage pattern. Through PCA analysis based on RSCU, all ORFs in the 49 fish rhabdoviurs genomes were clustered into two parts, and this result showed that hosts played a role in codon usage pattern of fish rhabdovirns genomes. Further, comparison between SVCV, INHV, VHSV and their hosts suggested the effect of natural host on the codon usage pattern took part in the evolution process of fish rhabdovirns. This study represents the most comprehensive analysis to date for fish rhabdovirus eodon usage patterns.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31372097)the Agricultural Science&Technology Independent Innovation Fund of Jiangsu Province,China(CX(13)2014)
文摘The flower-meristem-identity gene APETALA2(AP2), one of class-A genes, is involved in the establishment of the floral meristem and the forming of sepals and petals. Codon usage bias(CUB) identifies differences among species, meanwhile dynamic analysis of base composition can identify the molecular mechanisms and evolutionary relationships of a specific gene. In this study, eight coding sequences(CDS) of AP2 gene were selected from different plant species using the Gen Bank database. Their nucleotide composition(GC content), genetic index, relative synonymous codon usage(RSCU) and relative codon usage bias(RCUB) were calculated with R Software to compare codon bias and base composition dynamics of AP2 gene codon usage patterns in different plant species. The results showed that the usage of AP2 gene codons from different plant species were influened by GC bias, especially GC3 s. Overall, base composition analysis indicated that the usage frequency of codon AT in the gene coding sequence was higher than GC among AP2 gene CDS from different plant species. Furthermore, most AP2 gene CDSs ended with AT; AGA, GCU and UGU had relatively high RSCU values as the most dominant codon; the usage characteristic of the AP2 gene codon in Malus domestica was similar to that of Vitis vinifera; Paeonia lactiflora was similar to Paeonia suffruticosa and Solanum lycopersicum was similar to Petunia×hybrida. There was a moderate preference in the usage of AP2 gene codon among different plant species from relatively low frequency of optimal codon(Fop) values and high effective number of codons(ENC) value. This study has revealed the usage characteristics of the AP2 gene codon from the comparision of AP2 gene codon preference and base dynamics in different plant species and provide a platform for further study towards transgenic engineering and codon optimization.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(39870421)the Key Research Project of Zhejiang Province,China(2003C22007).
文摘The relationship between the codon usage bias, gene expression level and the AUG context(from -20 to +6 positions relative to the initiator AUG codon) was examined in 541unigene sequences of rice. A significant correlation for CAI values (codon adaptationindex) was observed at five nucleotide positions (-19, -18, -9, -4, +5), eight (-19, -18,-14, -9, -6, -4, -1, +5) for CPP (codon preference parameter), and seven (-18, -16, -15,-9, -7, -1, +6) for mRNA abundance in the flanking sequence of the initiator AUG codonrespectively, but a significantly positive correlation for both CAI and CPP at twopositions (-4 and +5), indicating that both those positions are evolutionally under thenatural selection constraint at the translational level. By site-directed mutagenesis atseven specific positions (-18, -16, -15, -9, -7, -1 and +6) for allergenic protein thathad the highest mRNA abundance in this study, its expression level decreased dramatically63.3 and 72.5% respectively, indicating the importance of those 7 positions for geneexpression. A highly positive correlation (r=0.625, P<0.01) between AUGCAI and GCcontent in the flanking sequence of the initiator AUG codon showed a more effectivehigher GC content on translation initiation efficiency. The strong preference for G orC at those 8 positions (-6, -5, -3, -2, -1, +4, +5 and +6) in the AUG context suggestedthat an important factor in modulation of the translation efficiency, as well assynonymous codon usage bias, particularly in highly expressed genes.
基金Funding Statement:This work was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32100132)Shandong Province Natural Sciences Foundation of China(ZR2021QC008)+1 种基金Youth Innovation Team Program'in College of Shandong Province of China(2022KJ119)supported by Young Talent of Lifting Engineering for Science and Technology in Shandong,China(SDAST2024QT085).
文摘Sweet potatoes are significant cash crops,however,their yield and quality are greatly compromised by viral diseases.In this study,the complete genomic sequences of two Sweet Potato Virus 2(SPV2)isolates from infected sweet potato leaves in the Shandong(designated as SPV2-SDYT,GenBank No.PQ855660.1)and Jiangsu(designated as SPV2-JSXZ,GenBank No.PQ855661.1)provinces in China were obtained using 5′RACE and RT-PCR amplification.Consistency,phylogeny,codon usage bias,recombination,and selection pressure analyses were conducted using the SPV2-SDYT and SPV2-JSXZ genome sequences.The complete genome sequences of SPV2-SDYT and SPV2-JSXZ were 10561 nucleotides(nt)in length,with respective nucleotide and amino acid identities of 99.25%and 99.12%,respectively.Both isolates were closely related to the SPV2 isolate from China(SPV2-LN).In both SPV2-SDYT and SPV2-JSXZ,the identity of the P1 protein was the highest,whereas that of the P3 protein was the lowest.There were 26 codons with relatively synonymous codon usage(RSCU)values greater than 1 in SPV2-SDYT and 27 codons with RSCU values greater than 1 in SPV2-JSXZ.High-frequency codons in their genomes were predominantly found to end with A/U.Recombination analysis revealed no major recombination sites in either SPV2-SDYT or SPV2-JSXZ.Further selection pressure analysis showed that the non-synonymous substitution rate/synonymous substitution rate(dN/dS)value of all 10 SPV2 proteins was less than 1.This is the first report on the evolutionary relationships of the 17 known SPV2 isolates.Our findings lay the molecular groundwork for preventing and controlling SPV2 infection in root-tuber crops.These findings also contribute to our understanding of the spread and evolution of SPV2,its pathogenic mechanisms,and the development of antiviral strategies against it.
基金Supported by The Hebei Province Key R&D Program Project(21326304D)The Engineering Research Center of Chestnut Industry Technology,Ministry of Education,Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology(202202).
文摘[Objectives]The 14-3-3 proteins are a class of highly conserved adapter proteins in eukaryotes that play a central role in signal transduction by recognizing phosphorylated target proteins and are crucial for plant growth and development.Chinese chestnut(Castanea mollissima)is an important woody grain crop in China.This study aimed to systematically identify the 14-3-3 gene family in chestnut and investigate their fundamental characteristics and functional clues,thereby laying a foundation for further elucidating the biological functions of this family in Chinese chestnut.[Methods]Using a combination of bioinformatics and molecular biology approaches,we conducted a comprehensive identification of the 14-3-3 family members in Chinese chestnut.Subsequently,we systematically analyzed their physicochemical properties,gene structures,conserved domains and motifs,gene duplication events,phylogenetic relationships,tissue-specific expression patterns,and codon usage bias.[Results]A total of nine 14-3-3 family members,designated CmGRF1 to CmGRF9,were identified and classified into two subgroups:epsilon(5 members)and non-epsilon(4 members).All CmGRF proteins were predicted to be hydrophilic.Phylogenetic analysis revealed a strong correlation between the clustering of CmGRFs and their respective gene structures,conserved domains,and motif compositions.Transcriptome data analysis indicated significant differences in the expression levels of different CmGRF members across various tissues and developmental stages.Codon preference analysis showed that CmGRFs tend to use codons ending with A/U,and their evolution is primarily driven by natural selection pressure.[Conclusions]This study provides the first genome-wide systematic analysis of the gene family in Chinese chestnut.The findings offer important theoretical insights and candidate genes for further research into the specific functions of these family members in chestnut growth,development,and stress responses.
基金Supported by the Sate Key Basic Research and Development Plan of China （2003CB715904） and the National Science Foundation for 0verseas Distinguished Young Scholar （30428003）
文摘In many organisms, the difference in codon usage patterns among genes reflects variation in local base compositional biases and the intensity of natural selection. In this study, a comparative analysis was performed to investigate the characteristics of codon bias and factors in shaping the codon usage patterns among mitochondrion, chloroplast and nuclear genes in common wheat （Triticum aestivum L.）. GC contents in nuclear genes were higher than that in mitochondrion and chloroplast genes. The neutrality and correspondence analyses indicated that the codon usage in nuclear genes would be a result of relative strong mutational bias, while the codon usage patterns of mitochondrion and chloroplast genes were more conserved in GC content and influenced by translation level. The Parity Rule 2 （PR2） plot analysis showed that pyrimidines were used more frequently than purines at the third codon position in the three genomes. In addition, using a new alterative strategy, 11, 12, and 24 triplets were defined as preferred codons in the mitochondrion, chloroplast and nuclear genes, respectively. These findings suggested that the mitochondrion, chloroplast and nuclear genes shared particularly different features of codon usage and evolutionary constraints.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.30571146)the Rice Project(04–06) of Zhejiang Province of China
文摘Transposable elements （TEs） are mobile genetic entities ubiquitously distributed in nearly all genomes. High frequency of codons ending in A/T in TEs has been previously observed in some species. In this study, the biases in nucleotide composition and codon usage of TE transposases and host nuclear genes were investigated in the AT-rich genome of Arabidopsis thaliana and the GC-rich genome of Oryza sativa. Codons ending in A/T are more frequently used by TEs compared with their host nuclear genes. A remarkable positive correlation between highly expressed nuclear genes and C/G-ending codons were detected in O. sativa （r=0.944 and 0.839, respectively, P〈0.0001） but not in A. thaliana, indicating a close association between the GC content and gene expression level in monocot species. In both species, TE codon usage biases are similar to that of weakly expressed genes. The expression and activity of TEs may be strictly controlled in plant genomes. Mutation bias and selection pressure have simultaneously acted on the TE evolution in A. thaliana and O. sativa. The consistently observed biases of nucleotide composition and codon usage of TEs may also provide a useful clue to accurately detect TE sequences in different species.
