RT Journal Article T1 Comprehensive Genomic Analysis of Meyerozyma guilliermondii CECT13190: An Outstanding Biocontrol Agent A1 Vicente Sánchez, Javier A1 Alonso de Robador, José María A1 Pintos López, Beatriz A1 Gómez Garay, María Aranzazu AB Background/Objectives: Biocontrol agents (BCAs) are gaining attention as sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides. Understanding their molecular mechanisms is crucial for improving plant protection. This study investigates the genomic features of Meyerozyma guilliermondii CECT13190, a promising BCA, to identify key genes involved in its biocontrol abilities. Methods: Whole-genome sequencing of M. guilliermondii was performed, followed by bioinformatics analysis to identify genes and pathways related to biocontrol, including gene copy number variation (CNV) analysis. Gene ontology (GO) analysis was conducted to examine gene functions, and a comparative proteomics approach assessed the presence and role of proteins in the secretome of M. guilliermondii. Results: Genomic analysis revealed key biocontrol-related pathways. CNV analysis indicated a direct correlation between gene amplification and competitive fitness, with seven genes showing gains and five genes showing losses. GO analysis identified categories such as enzymes, transcription factors, ribosomal and proteasomal complexes, transporters, membrane proteins, RNA processing, and stress-response-related proteins. Secretome analysis identified HSP70 and HSP90 as potential effectors involved in biocontrol activity. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the genomic features of M. guilliermondii and its biocontrol potential. The identification of genes involved in the stress response and the secretome highlights the multifaceted mechanisms through which M. guilliermondii antagonizes plant pathogens. Practical outcomes include the identification of candidate genes and proteins, such as HSP70 and HSP90, which can be targeted to enhance biocontrol efficiency in agricultural applications. Additionally, the observed CNVs offer a potential avenue for strain improvement programs to optimize competitiveness and efficacy in field conditions. PB MDPI SN 2073-4425 YR 2025 FD 2025 LK https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/119150 UL https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/119150 LA eng NO Vicente, J., Alonso de Robador, J. M., Pintos, B., & Gomez-Garay, A. (2025). Comprehensive Genomic Analysis of Meyerozyma guilliermondii CECT13190: An Outstanding Biocontrol Agent. Genes, 16(2), 214. https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16020214 NO This research was funded by the Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain (RTA2015-0015-C02-02 Project). Javier Vicente conducted this research under a fellowship from the Complutense University of Madrid (CT58/21-CT59/21). NO Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria NO Universidad Complutense de Madrid DS Docta Complutense RD 21 ene 2026