Truffle Research in the Post-Genomics Era

The results originated in the frame of the genome sequencing project of the black truffle of Périgord (Tuber melanosporum) were published in 2010. Taking advantages from the sequencing project, which included automatic and manual annotation steps, specific studies were developed, in order to focus on specific gene categories (e.g. cell wall-related genes, carbohydrate metabolism, environmental response genes, etc.) and, among them, specific gene families. This has allowed us to have, together with the transcriptomic data obtained during the sequencing phase, new knowledge on metabolic processes that may happen during the complex life cycle of a symbiotic fungus, such as Tuber. The aim of this review is (i) to highlight the work that has been done in post-genomics stage to better understand the molecular mechanisms occurring during the interaction of this fungus with the host plant, as well as those involved in the formation of precious truffles and (ii) to describe the results derived from projects mainly devoted to truffle identification in processed products and quality monitoring, as well as to the contribution of bacteria to truffle aroma.