Whole-genome sequencing and biosynthetic gene cluster analysis of Bacillus subtilis BAGL as a potent antifungal biocontrol agent against phytopathogenic fungi

Bacillus subtilis BAGL, isolated from the rhizosphere, demonstrated significant antifungal activity against key phytopathogens, inhibiting R. solani by 73.7%, F. oxysporum by 55.15%, and (A) solani by 77%. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a genome size of 4,227,102 bp, GC content of 43.08%, and 4,494 predicted genes. The accession number (PRJNA1349010) for the whole genome was obtained from the NCBI GenBank. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed BAGL’s taxonomic position of BAGL within the B. subtilis clade. The genome harbored 17 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) responsible for producing secondary metabolites with antimicrobial properties, such as surfactin, fengycin, bacillibactin, and subtilosin (A) Additionally, BAGL carries a diverse set of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) that may contribute to its biocontrol efficacy by disrupting fungal cell wall. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed BAGL’s involvement in multiple metabolic pathways, including secondary metabolite biosynthesis and carbon metabolism. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis highlighted numerous catalytic and binding activities crucial for metabolic and cellular processes. The presence of these genetic features suggests that B. subtilis BAGL is an effective candidate for developing eco-friendly disease management strategies in agricultural settings. Future investigations into the active compounds produced by BAGL and in vivo trials are essential to determine their efficacy in real-world settings.