COGEME

COGEME (Comparative Genomics for Eukaryotic Microbes) provides a database of 57,727 unique expressed sequence tags (ESTs) from 15 phytopathogenic and 3 saprophytic fungal species to support comparative genomic analyses that identify genetic differences related to fungal pathogenicity.

Key Features:

• Extensive EST collection: The database contains 57,727 unique ESTs derived from 15 phytopathogenic and 3 saprophytic fungal species.
• Comparative genomic analysis: Integrates EST data with completed fungal genome sequences to enable investigation of genetic similarities and differences between pathogenic and non‑pathogenic fungi.
• Functional gene group identification: Facilitates identification of functional gene groups enriched in phytopathogenic fungi that may correspond to virulence factors or pathogenic mechanisms.
• Obligate biotroph divergence: EST analysis indicates that the obligate biotroph Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei shares fewer sequences with filamentous ascomycetes and contains a higher proportion of uncharacterized unique sequences.

Scientific Applications:

• Pathogen research: Enables exploration of the molecular basis of fungal pathogenicity and host interaction by identifying candidate genes associated with disease.
• Genomic comparisons: Supports comparative genomics studies contrasting gene expression profiles between phytopathogenic and saprophytic species.
• Functional genomics: Assists discovery of potential antifungal targets by highlighting functional groups of genes enriched in phytopathogens.

Methodology:

Comparative analyses integrate EST data with completed fungal genome sequences to assess genetic similarities and differences and to identify conserved and unique gene sequences across species.