Genome of the Giant Panda Roundworm Illuminates Its Host Shift and Parasitic Adaptation

Abstract

Baylisascaris schroederi, a roundworm (ascaridoid) parasite specific to the bamboo-feeding giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), represents a leading cause of mortality in wild giant panda populations. Here, we present a 293-megabase chromosome-level genome assembly of B. schroederi to infer its biology, including host adaptations. Comparative genomics revealed an evolutionary trajectory accompanied by host-shift events in ascaridoid parasite lineages after host separations, suggesting their potential for transmission and rapid adaptation to new hosts. Genomic and anatomical lines of evidence, including expansion and positive selection of genes related to the cuticle and basal metabolisms, indicate that B. schroederi undergoes specific adaptations to survive in the sharp-edged bamboo-enriched gut of giant pandas by structurally increasing its cuticle thickness and efficiently utilizing host nutrients through gut parasitism. Additionally, we characterized the secretome of B. schroederi and predicted potential drug and vaccine targets for new control strategies. Overall, this genome resource provides new insights into the host adaptation of B. schroederi to the giant panda as well as the host-shift events in ascaridoid parasite lineages. Our findings on the unique biology of B. schroederi will also aid in the development of prevention and treatment measures to protect giant panda populations from roundworm parasitism.

Keywords: Baylisascaris genome; Giant panda; Host adaptation; Host shift; Parasitism evolution.