Distribution Pattern of N6-Methyladenine DNA Modification in the Seashore Paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum) Genome

N6-methyladenine (6mA) DNA modification has been detected in several eukaryotic organisms, in some of them, it plays important role in the regulation process of stress-resistance response. However, the genome-wide distribution patterns and potential functions of 6mA DNA modification in halophyte Seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum) remain largely unknown. Here, we examined the 6mA landscape in the P. vaginatum genome by adopting single molecule real-time sequencing technology and found that 6mA modification sites were broadly distributed across the P. vaginatum genome. We demonstrated distinct 6mA methylation levels and 6mA distribution patterns in different types of transcription genes, which hinted at different epigenetic rules. Furthermore, the moderate 6mA density genes in P. vaginatum functionally correlated with stress resistance, which also maintained a higher transcriptional level. On the other hand, a specific 6mA distribution pattern in the gene body and near TSS was observed in gene groups with higher RNA expression, which maybe implied some kind of regularity between 6mA site distribution and the protein coding genes transcription was possible. Our study provides new insights into the association between 6mA methylation and gene expression, which may also contribute to key agronomic traits in P. vaginatum.

Automated summary

This study examined the distribution patterns and potential functions of 6mA DNA modification in the halophyte Seashore paspalum genome. The results showed that 6mA modification sites were widely distributed across the genome and exhibited different levels and patterns in different types of transcription genes. The moderate 6mA density genes were found to be functionally correlated with stress resistance, while a specific 6mA distribution pattern was observed in gene groups with higher RNA expression. These findings provide new insights into the association between 6mA methylation and gene expression in P. vaginatum.