Genomic insights into the carbohydrate-active enzymes of Trichoderma asperellum USM SD4 for potential efficient biomass degradation

Aims: This study aimed to analyze the Trichoderma asperellum USM SD4 genome to identify carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) involved in lignocellulosic biomass degradation.These enzymes, particularly glycoside hydrolases (GHs), are crucial for converting biomass into simple sugars. Methodology and results:The genomic DNA of T. asperellum USM SD4 was successfully sequenced, resulting in an assembled genome size of 35.83 Mb containing 10,208 protein-coding sequences.The CAZyme analysis revealed a total of 482 annotated polypeptides, with the highest 54% classified as GHs.The 180 proteins were lignocellulosic CAZymes, with 44% targeting hemicellulose hydrolysis, 42% for cellulose degradation, and 14% for lignin degradation.The present study identifies 14 xylanases and 23 cellulases protein-coding genes in the T. asperellum USM SD4 genome.The secretome analysis revealed 770 proteins, with 182 proteins associated with CAZymes.Among these, one putative xylanase and one putative cellulase were selected for the in vitro characterization. Conclusion, significance and impact of study:This study highlighted the potential of T. asperellum USM SD4 for industrial applications that require efficient biomass degradation.