Genome and Evolution of Betula platyphylla

We sequenced the Betula platyphylla genome and assembled the sequences into 14 chromosomes. The Betula genome lacks evidence for a recent whole-genome duplication and shows the same paleoploidy level as Vitis vinifera and Prunus mume. However, the B. platyphylla genome has undergone significant rearrangements since the core eudicot hexaploidization. Phylogenetic analysis of lignin pathway genes, coupled with tissue-specific expression patterns, provides a basis for the formation of high ratios of syringyl to guaiacyl lignins. A time-series RNA-seq experiment under cold stress condition linked the mitogen-activated protein kinases to cold tolerance. The Betula genome will enhance current efforts to improve Betula for forestry through conventional breeding and genetic engineering.

Hairong Wei¹ Yucheng Wang², Su Chen², Lili Yu³, Chunfang Zheng⁴, David Sankoff⁴, Qiang Gao³, Guifeng Liu² and Chunping Yang², (1) Michigan Technological University; (2) Northeast Forestry University; (3) BGI-Shenzhen; (4) University of Ottawa