Bioprospection of actinobacteria derived from freshwater sediments for their potential to produce antimicrobial compounds

Investigation of anti-microbial and cytotoxic potential of Streptomyces werraensis GRS9 derived from the sediments of river Ganga

The aim of the present work was to screen bacterial and actinomycetes strains from the sediments of river Ganga (India) as a promising source of anti-microbial and anti-cancer agents along with spectroscopic and chromatographic identification of bio-active compounds. The strain GRS9 exhibited broad-spectrum bio-activity against all the 15-test organisms incorporated in our study with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 16 µg/ml against Staphylococcus aureus MTCC3160 to 500 μg/ml for Escherichia coli (MTCC118). The cytotoxic profile of ethyl acetate extract was also evaluated against Human Colon Cancer Cell Line (HCT116) by Neutral Red Uptake (NRU) assay, followed by in silico study to determine its pre-qualification for drug suitability. The results indicated that Streptomyces werraensis GRS9 extract possessed anti-cancer properties (IC50 = 22.95 µg/ml) and found suitable for further drug development as reflected in Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion (ADME) prediction having no violation of Lipinski's rule of five. Bioactive compounds associated with GRS9 were identified by Gas Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), revealing 29 compounds along with 10 major compounds identified via National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) /Wiley library. These compounds include N-(4-methyl-1-Piperzinyl)-1-Napthamide (a compound of immense pharmacological potential especially in oncology) along with anti-microbials i.e. Dodecanamide and 1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, Diethyl ester. The findings revealed our sediment isolate Streptomyces werraensis GRS9 to be a suitable candidate for the isolation and purification of bio-active compounds that may act as a source of anti-microbial and anti-cancer agents.

Comprehensive analysis of phytochemicals in Aporosa cardiosperma (Gaertn.) Merr root: chromatographic techniques and experimental insights

This novel study investigates the bioactive compounds in the roots of Aporosa cardiosperma (Gaertn.) MerrA. cardiosperma, a tree with significant use in traditional Asian medicine. Through a comprehensive chromatographic approach, including TLC, HPTLC, GC-MS, and LC-MS, this research offers new insights into the plant's bioactive profile. Sequential extraction with solvents of varying polarity was followed by phytochemical screening and quantification of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. The results revealed a diverse range of bioactive components, including flavonoids, terpenoids, phenols, and steroids, with the highest concentrations found in methanolic and ethanolic extracts. Notably, the ethanolic extract contained 7.0 ± 0.03 mg of phenolics and 30.1 ± 0.04 mg of flavonoids. The GC-MS identified 31 compounds, and LC-MS detected 15, including phyllanthacidoid methyl ester, beta-sitosterol, gallic acid, rutin, ellagic acid, and chlorogenic acid. This groundbreaking research highlights A. cardiosperma's therapeutic potential and paves the way for its future application in modern medicine.

Unraveling the mechanisms of propofol-induced psychological dependence: a multi-omics approach linked to gut microbiota in hippocampal function

Introduction

Drug abuse is becoming a global public health crisis. According to the United Nations, the number of drug users worldwide has increased dramatically over the past decade, with a surge in the number of drug abusers. The problem was exacerbated by the expanding market for illicit drugs and the increasing availability of synthetic drugs such as fentanyl. Clinical drug abuse is a problem that requires particular attention, and the potential addictive properties of some drugs and their mechanisms of action are currently unknown, which limits the development and implementation of drug addiction intervention strategies.

Methods

Eight-week-old C57BL/6J mice were used as study subjects. A mental dependence model was established using the conditional position preference experiment (CPP), and the hippocampal tissues of the model mice were subjected to RNA-seq transcriptome sequencing, LC-MS non-targeted metabolome sequencing, and intestinal macro-genome sequencing in order to discover propofol mental dependence signature genes. Correlation analyses of transcriptomics and metabolomics were performed using the Spearman method, and gene-metabolite networks were mapped using Cytoscape software. Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and immunoprotein blotting (Western blotting) methods were used to validate the characterized genes.

Results

After the conditioned position preference experiment, the conditioned preference scores of the 75 mg/kg propofol and 2 g/kg alcohol groups were significantly higher than those of the control saline group. 152 differential genes and 214 differential metabolites were identified in the 75 mg/kg group. Cluster analysis revealed that changes in the neuroactive ligand receptor pathway were most pronounced. Gut microbiomics assays revealed significant changes in five differential enterobacterial phyla (Campylobacter phylum, Thick-walled phylum, Anaplasma phylum, Actinobacteria phylum, and Chlorella verticillata phylum) in the 75 mg/kg propofol group, which may be related to changes in the differential expression of dopamine.

Discussion

These findings suggest that 75 mg/kg propofol has a significant mind-dependent effect on the biology of drug addiction through neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathways in conjunction with the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and the metabolic pathways of alanine, aspartate, and glutamate that may influence intestinal microbial changes through bidirectional signaling.

Exploring the microbial communities in coastal cenote and their hidden biotechnological potential

Bacterial secondary metabolites are crucial bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic potential, playing key roles in ecological processes and the discovery of novel antimicrobial agents and natural products. Cenotes, as extreme environments, harbour untapped microbial diversity and hold an interesting potential as sources of novel secondary metabolites. While research has focused on the fauna and flora of cenotes, the study of their microbial communities and their biosynthetic capabilities remains limited. Advances in metagenomics and genome sequencing have greatly improved the capacity to explore these communities and their metabolites. In this study, we analysed the microbial diversity and biotechnological potential of micro-organisms inhabiting sediments from a coastal cenote. Metagenomic analyses revealed a rich diversity of bacterial and archaeal communities, containing several novel biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) linked to secondary metabolite production. Notably, polyketide synthase BGCs, including those encoding ladderanes and aryl-polyenes, were identified. Bioinformatics analyses of these pathways suggest the presence of compounds with potential industrial and pharmaceutical applications. These findings highlight the biotechnological value of cenotes as reservoirs of secondary metabolites. The study and conservation of these ecosystems are essential to facilitate the discovery of new bioactive compounds that could benefit various industries.

Diving into freshwater microbial metabolites: Pioneering research and future prospects

In practically every facet of life, especially nutrition, agriculture, and healthcare, microorganisms offer a prospective origin for abundant natural substances and products. Among these microorganisms, bacteria also possess the capability to rapidly acclimate to diverse environments, utilize varied resources, and effectively respond to environmental fluctuations, including those influenced by human activities like pollution and climate change. The ever-changing environment of freshwater bodies influences bacterial communities, offering opportunities for improving health and environmental conservation that remain unexplored. Herein, the study discusses the bacterial taxa along with specialised metabolites with antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer activity that have been identified from freshwater environments, thus achieving Sustainable Development Goals addressing health and wellbeing (SDG-3), economic growth (SDG-8) along with industrial development (SDG-9). The present review is intended as a compendium for research teams working in the fields of medicinal chemistry, organic chemistry, clinical research, and natural product chemistry.

Optimization and characterization of bioactive secondary metabolites from Streptomyces sp CMSTAAHL-4 isolated from mangrove sediment

BACKGROUND

Ten morphologically different actinomycetes were isolated from mangrove sediments of Manakudy, Kanyakumari District, India. The potent strain was selected based on their primary screening against Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis and Gram negative Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi bacterial pathogens. The selected strain was identified as Streptomyces sp CMSTAAHL-4 by 16S rRNA sequencing. The media optimization for secondary metabolites production was performed by One-Variable at a Time and Response Surface Methodology-Central Composite Design. Minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bacterial concentration for the extracted secondary metabolites were determined. The antioxidant potential of the secondary metabolites showed that the concentration of the metabolites increases, with the percentage of inhibition. The anti-inflammatory activity of the secondary metabolites found that maximum activity was observed at 500 µg/ml of the metabolites. Alcohols, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, carboxylic acids, aliphatic esters functional groups were identified by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography and mass spectrometer analysis of the secondary metabolites revealed five bioactive compounds. The X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the secondary metabolites are amorphous. The thermogravimetric analysis showed the thermal stability of secondary metabolites. Atomic force microscopy analysis revealed specific structural characteristics of the secondary metabolites, which may be associated with their potential biological activities.

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed that the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory chemicals present in the isolated secondary metabolites give them therapeutic properties.

Metagenomic insights into microbial community, functional annotation, and antibiotic resistance genes in Himalayan Brahmaputra River sediment, India

Introduction

The Brahmaputra, a major transboundary river of the Himalayas flowing predominantly through Northeast India, particularly Assam, is increasingly endangered by contamination due to rapid urbanization and anthropogenic pressures. These environmental changes pose significant risks at the microbial level, affecting nutrient cycling and productivity, and thereby impacting river ecosystem health. The next-generation sequencing technology using a metagenomics approach has revolutionized our understanding of the microbiome and its critical role in various aquatic environments.

Methods

The present study aimed to investigate the structure of the bacterial community and its functional potentials within the sediments of the Brahmaputra River, India, using high-throughput shotgun metagenomics. Additionally, this study sought to explore the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes in the river's sediment.

Results and discussion

Shotgun metagenomics revealed a diverse bacterial community comprising 31 phyla, 52 classes, 291 families, 1,016 genera, and 3,630 species. Dominant phyla included Pseudomonadota (62.47-83.48%), Actinobacteria (11.10-24.89%), Bacteroidetes (0.97-3.82%), Firmicutes (0.54-3.94%), Cyanobacteria (0.14-1.70%), and Planctomycetes (0.30-0.78%). Functional profiling highlighted significant involvement in energy metabolism, amino acid and central carbon metabolism, stress response, and degradation pathways, emphasizing the microbial community's role in ecosystem functioning and resilience. Notably, 50 types of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) were detected, with resistance profiles spanning multidrug, aminoglycoside, β-lactam, fluoroquinolone, rifampicin, sulfonamide, and tetracycline classes. Network analysis underscored the intricate relationships among ARG subtypes, suggesting potential mechanisms of resistance propagation. Furthermore, plasmid-related genes and 185 virulence factor genes (VFGs) were identified, indicating additional layers of microbial adaptation and potential pathogenicity within the river sediments. This comprehensive microbial and functional profiling of the Brahmaputra's sediment metagenome provides crucial insights into microbial diversity, resistance potential, and ecological functions, offering a foundation for informed management and mitigation strategies to preserve river health and mitigate pollution impacts.

Investigation of the fermentation filtrate from soapberry (Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn.) pericarp on improving the microbial diversity and composition of the human scalp

Introduction

Microorganisms as a component of scalp ecosystem play a vital role in human scalp health. Soapberry pericarp is employed in improving scalp health, and its content of active ingredients could be enhanced resulted in fermentation. This study aims to investigate the effect of the fermentation filtrate from soapberry pericarp on the diversity of scalp microorganisms.

Methods

The components in fermentation filtrate from soapberry pericarp were analyzed by HPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, and 16S and ITS sequences of 198 samples from three different used stages (Day 0, Day 7, Day 28) were sequenced using the Illumina Novaseq platform. Microbial diversity was assessed using alpha diversity (Chao1 and Shannon indexes) and beta diversity (weighted unifrac and unweighted unifrac). Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size analysis (LEfSe) were used to visualize microbial variation among different stages.

Results

There were 22 components were identified in the fermentation filtrate from soapberry pericarp by HPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS. The alpha-diversity and beta-diversity analyses showed that scalp microbial diversity and composition were influenced by the fermentation filtrate of soapberry pericarp. Based on functional analysis, this study found an enrichment of healthy scalp-related bacterial pathways, such as amino acid, nucleoside, and nucleotide biosynthesis, while a decrease in fungal pathogenesis pathways, specifically saprotroph and symbiotroph pathways, was observed.

Discussion

The study described about the complex community dynamics of human scalp microorganisms during the stages of using the fermentation filtrate from soapberry pericarp. This result will help rationally utilize the fermentation filtrate from soapberry pericarp to keep or improve human scalp health.

Spider's Silk as a Potential Source of Antibiotics: An Integrative Review

Spiders produce webs, which are still a largely unexplored source of antibacterial compounds, although the reports of its application in the medical field. Therefore, this study aims to present an integrative review of the antibacterial activity of spider webs. The research was conducted using Google Scholar, Scielo, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Medline EBSCO, LILACS, and Embase. The inclusion criteria were original articles written in English that studied the antibiotic properties of the web or isolated compounds tested. The studies were compared according to the spider species studied, the type of web, treatment of the sample, type of antimicrobial test, and the results obtained. Nine hundred and seventy-three publications were found, and after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, sixteen articles were selected. Bacterial inhibition was found in seven studies against various species of bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella Typhi, Bacillus megaterium, Listeria monocytogenes, Acinetobacter baumannii, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Pasteurella multocida, and Bacillus subtilis. Additionally, there was no apparent relationship between the proximity of the spider species evaluated in the studies and the presence or absence of activity. Methodological problems detected may affected the reproducibility and reliability of the results in some studies, such as the lack of description of the web or microorganism strain, as well as the absence of adequate controls and treatments to sterilize the sample. Spider webs can be a valuable source of antibiotics; however, more studies are needed to confirm the real activity of the web or components involved.

The toxic effect of lead exposure on the physiological homeostasis of grouper: Insight from gut-liver axis

The heavy metal lead (Pb) pollution in marine environment has been widely concerned. The liver and intestine are important for the health of fish. In this study, the grouper were exposed to 1 μg/L Pb for 14 days, and the physiological homeostasis changes were explored via gut-liver axis. The results showed that Pb stress caused liver morphological changes, oxidative stress, and the accumulation and peroxidation of the lipids. The liver metabolism were disturbed, especially amino acid metabolism and the synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies. Pb stress also caused intestinal mucosal ablation, tight junction dysfunction and inflammatory response. Additionally, intestinal microbial diversity was decreased, and the community composition was altered especially several bacteria genera (Ruminococcus UCG-005, Ruminococcus UCG-014, Oscillibacter, and Streptococcus) were significantly correlated with the physiological indexes and metabolites of the liver. These results reveal that Pb stress negatively affect the physiological homeostasis of the grouper via gut-liver axis.

Occurrence, Source Apportionment, and Risk Assessment of Antibiotics in Mangrove Sediments from the Lianzhou Bay, China

In recent years, the widespread application of antibiotics has raised global concerns, posing a severe threat to ecological health. In this study, the occurrence, source, and ecological risks of 39 antibiotics belonging to 5 classes in mangrove sediments from Lianzhou Bay, China, were assessed. The total concentrations of the antibiotics (∑39 antibiotics) ranged from 65.45 to 202.24 ng/g dry weight (dw), with an average of 142.73 ± 36.76 ng/g dw. The concentrations of these five classes of antibiotics were as follows: Sulfonamides (SAs) > Tetracyclines (TCs) > Fluoroquinolones (QUs) > Penicillin (PCs) > Macrolides (MLs). The spatial distribution of antibiotics varied as high tidal zone > middle tidal zone > low tidal zone. The total organic carbon (TOC), pH, nitrate (NO3--N), and nitrite (NO2--N) of the sediment significantly influenced the distribution of antibiotics (p < 0.05). A source analysis identified untreated sewage from aquaculture as the primary source of antibiotics in the local mangrove. A risk assessment revealed that ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, ofloxacin of QUs, and tetracycline of TCs exhibited medium risks to algae in certain sampling sites, while other antibiotics exhibited low or no risks to all organisms. Nevertheless, the total risk of all the detected antibiotics to algae was medium in 95% of the sites. The overall ecological risk level of antibiotics in the middle tidal zone was slightly lower than in the high tidal zone and the lowest in the low tidal zone. In summary, the experimental results provided insights into the fate and transport behaviors of antibiotics in mangrove sediments from Lianzhou Bay.

Effects of potassium monopersulfate on nitrification activity and bacterial community structure of sponge biocarrier biofilm in Litopenaeus vannamei aquaculture system

Effects of potassium monopersulfate (KMPS) on the nitrification activity, aquacultural water quality and bacterial community structure of sponge biocarriers with pre-cultured biofilm (SBBF) were analysed through shaking flask experiments and L. vannamei aquaculture experiments. Changes in the ammonia oxidation rate (AOR) and nitrite oxidation rate (NOR) of SBBF under six KMPS concentration treatments (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 mg/L) were studied. The results showed that the AOR and NOR of SBBF treated with high concentrations of KMPS (3, 4 and 5 mg/L) were significantly lower than those of the control group (CK) (p < 0.05). However, compared with the first dosing of NH4Cl and NaNO2, the inhibition of AOR and NOR by KMPS on AOR and NOR was weakened after the second and third dosing times. That is, AOR and NOR can recover partially or completely over time. The L. vannamei aquaculture experiment was performed using four concentrations of KMPS (0, 2, 4 and 8 mg/L). The results showed that with increasing KMPS dosage, the average and peak concentrations of NH4+-N and NO2--N in each treatment significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the final body weight of shrimp significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Furthermore the highest dose (8.0 mg/L) of KMPS reduced the survival rate by 9.33% compared to the CK. High-throughput sequencing analysis of the biofilm structure showed that the relative abundances of Nitrospirota, Nitrosomonas and Nitrococcus, which are related to nitrogen cycling, and beneficial bacteria including Firmicutes and Bacilli decreased with the addition of KMPS (p < 0.05).

Toxicity of three microcystin variants on the histology, physiological and metabolism of hepatopancreas and intestinal microbiota of Litopenaeus vannamei

Microcystins (MCs) are prevalent harmful contaminants within shrimp aquaculture systems, exhibiting a diverse array of variants. Gut microbiota can engage in mutual interactions with the host through the gut-liver axis. In this study, the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei were subjected to three different variants of MCs (LR, YR, RR) at a concentration of 1 μg/L each, and elucidated the alterations in both intestinal microbiota and hepatopancreas physiological homeostasis. The results showed that all three variants of MCs prompted histological alterations in the hepatopancreas, induced elevated levels of oxidative stress biomarkers (H2O2, T-SOD, and CAT), disturbed the transcription levels of immune-related genes (Crus, ALF, and Lys), along with an increase in apoptotic genes (Casp-3 and P53). Furthermore, the metabolic profiles of the hepatopancreas were perturbed, particularly in amino acid metabolism such as "lysine degradation" and "β-alanine metabolism"; the mTOR and FoxO signaling were also influenced, encompassing alterations in the transcription levels of related genes. Additionally, the alterations were observed in the intestinal microbiota's diversity and composition, particularly potential beneficial bacteria (Alloprevotella, Bacteroides, Collinsella, Faecalibacterium, and Prevotellaceae UCG-001), which exhibited a positive correlation with the metabolite berberine. These findings reveal that the three MCs variants can impact the health of the shrimp by interfering with the homeostasis of intestinal microbial and hepatopancreas physiology.

Diversity and Bioprospection of Gram-positive Bacteria Derived from a Mayan Sinkhole

Water-filled sinkholes known locally as cenotes, found on the Yucatán Peninsula, have remarkable biodiversity. The primary objective of this study was to explore the biotechnological potential of Gram-positive cultivable bacteria obtained from sediment samples collected at the coastal cenote Pol-Ac in Yucatán, Mexico. Specifically, the investigation aimed to assess production of hydrolytic enzymes and antimicrobial compounds. 16 S rRNA gene sequencing led to the identification of 49 Gram-positive bacterial isolates belonging to the phyla Bacillota (n = 29) and Actinomycetota (n = 20) divided into the common genera Bacillus and Streptomyces, as well as the genera Virgibacillus, Halobacillus, Metabacillus, Solibacillus, Neobacillus, Rossellomorea, Nocardiopsis and Corynebacterium. With growth at 55ºC, 21 of the 49 strains were classified as moderately thermotolerant. All strains were classified as halotolerant and 24 were dependent on marine water for growth. Screening for six extracellular hydrolytic enzymes revealed gelatinase, amylase, lipase, cellulase, protease and chitinase activities in 93.9%, 67.3%, 63.3%, 59.2%, 59.2% and 38.8%, of isolated strains, respectively. The genes for polyketide synthases type I, were detected in 24 of the strains. Of 18 strains that achieved > 25% inhibition of growth in the bacterial pathogen Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, 4 also inhibited growth in Escherichia coli ATCC 35,218. Isolates Streptomyces sp. NCA_378 and Bacillus sp. NCA_374 demonstrated 50-75% growth inhibition against at least one of the two pathogens tested, along with significant enzymatic activity across all six extracellular enzymes. This is the first comprehensive report on the biotechnological potential of Gram-positive bacteria isolated from sediments in the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Isolation of Bacteriophages on Actinobacteria Hosts

Bacteriophages are ubiquitous biological entities which can be found in a variety of habitats. Here, we describe protocols for the isolation of bacteriophages on a variety of Actinobacterial genera. Two approaches to phage isolation, direct isolation and enriched isolation, are described, which can be performed individually or in parallel. The protocols described can be adapted to isolate a wide array of bacteriophages.

Genotyping of dengue virus from infected tissue samples embedded in paraffin

Dengue has become one of the vector-borne diseases that affect humans worldwide. In Latin American countries, Colombia is historically one of the most affected by epidemics of this flavivirus. The underreporting of signs and symptoms of probable cases of dengue, the lack of characterization of the serotypes of the infection, and the few detailed studies of postmortem necropsies of patients are among other conditions that have delayed progress in the knowledge of the pathogenesis of the disease. This study presents the results of fragment sequencing assays on paraffin-embedded tissue samples from fatal DENV cases during the 2010 epidemic in Colombia. We found that the predominant serotype was DENV-2, with the Asian/American genotype of lineages 1 and 2. This work is one of the few reports of the circulating genotypes of dengue during the 2010 epidemic in Colombia, one of the most lethal dates in the country's history.

Respiratory Quinone Switches from Menaquinone to Polyketide Quinone during the Development Cycle in Streptomyces sp. Strain MNU77

Type III polyketide synthases (PKSs) found across Streptomyces species are primarily known for synthesis of a vast repertoire of clinically and industrially relevant secondary metabolites. However, our understanding of the functional relevance of these bioactive metabolites in Streptomyces physiology is still limited. Recently, a role of type III PKS harboring gene cluster in producing alternate electron carrier, polyketide quinone (PkQ) was established in a related member of the Actinobacteria, Mycobacteria, highlighting the critical role these secondary metabolites play in primary cellular metabolism of the producer organism. Here, we report the developmental stage-specific transcriptional regulation of homologous type III PKS containing gene cluster in freshwater Streptomyces sp. strain MNU77. Gene expression analysis revealed the type III PKS gene cluster to be stringently regulated, with significant upregulation observed during the dormant sporulation stage of Streptomyces sp. MNU77. In contrast, the expression levels of only known electron carrier, menaquinone biosynthetic genes were interestingly found to be downregulated. Our liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) analysis of a metabolite extract from the Streptomyces sp. MNU77 spores also showed 10 times more metabolic abundance of PkQs than menaquinones. Furthermore, through heterologous complementation studies, we demonstrate that Streptomyces sp. MNU77 type III PKS rescues a respiratory defect of the Mycobacterium smegmatis type III PKS deletion mutant. Together, our studies reveal that freshwater Streptomyces sp. MNU77 robustly produces novel PkQs during the sporulation stage, suggesting utilization of PkQs as alternate electron carriers across Actinobacteria during dormant hypoxic conditions. IMPORTANCE The complex developmental life cycle of Streptomyces sp. mandates efficient cellular respiratory reconfiguration for a smooth transition from aerated nutrient-rich vegetative hyphal growth to the hypoxic-dormant sporulation stage. Polyketide quinones (PkQs) have recently been identified as a class of alternate electron carriers from a related member of the Actinobacteria, Mycobacteria, that facilitates maintenance of membrane potential in oxygen-deficient niches. Our studies with the newly identified freshwater Streptomyces sp. strain MNU77 show conditional transcriptional upregulation and metabolic abundance of PkQs in the spore state of the Streptomyces life cycle. In parallel, the levels of menaquinones, the only known Streptomyces electron carrier, were downregulated, suggesting deployment of PkQs as universal electron carriers in low-oxygen, unfavorable conditions across the Actinobacteria family.

Toxicity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on the histology, liver physiological and metabolism, and intestinal microbiota of grouper

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO₂) are a common environmental pollutant threatening aquatic animals. The natural habitats and cultured environments of groupers make them vulnerable to nanoparticle pollution. In this study, hybrid grouper juveniles were separately exposed to 1 or 10 mg/L nano-TiO₂ for 14 days, and the toxicological response of these groupers were investigated. After nano-TiO₂ exposure, the liver showed apparent histopathology and intestinal goblet cells were also affected. The transcription of antioxidant and apoptosis-related genes were down-regulated, and the inflammatory factor TNF-α was up-regulated in the liver. The metabolite patterns of the liver were disturbed, especially amino acid metabolism. The diversity and composition of the intestinal microbiota were also altered especially the genera Lactobacillus and Nautella. The changes of several intestinal bacteria were correlated with the immune factors and metabolites of respective hosts. We concluded that nano-TiO₂ exposure negatively affects the physiological homeostasis of groupers.

Actinobacteria from Arctic and Atlantic deep-sea sediments-Biodiversity and bioactive potential

The deep-sea covers over 70% of the Earth's surface and harbors predominantly uncharacterized bacterial communities. Actinobacteria are the major prokaryotic source of bioactive natural products that find their way into drug discovery programs, and the deep-sea is a promising source of biotechnologically relevant actinobacteria. Previous studies on actinobacteria in deep-sea sediments were either regionally restricted or did not combine a community characterization with the analysis of their bioactive potential. Here we characterized the actinobacterial communities of upper layers of deep-sea sediments from the Arctic and the Atlantic (Azores and Madeira) ocean basins, employing 16S rRNA metabarcoding, and studied the biosynthetic potential of cultivable actinobacteria retrieved from those samples. Metabarcoding analysis showed that the actinobacterial composition varied between the sampled regions, with higher abundance in the Arctic samples but higher diversity in the Atlantic ones. Twenty actinobacterial genera were detected using metabarcoding, as a culture-independent method, while culture-dependent methods only allowed the identification of nine genera. Isolation of actinobacteria resulted on the retrieval of 44 isolates, mainly associated with Brachybacterium, Microbacterium, and Brevibacterium genera. Some of these isolates were only identified on a specific sampled region. Chemical extracts of the actinobacterial isolates were subsequently screened for their antimicrobial, anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. Extracts from two Streptomyces strains demonstrated activity against Candida albicans. Additionally, eight extracts (obtained from Brachybacterium, Brevibacterium, Microbacterium, Rhodococcus, and Streptomyces isolates) showed significant activity against at least one of the tested cancer cell lines (HepG2 and T-47D). Furthermore, 15 actinobacterial extracts showed anti-inflammatory potential in the RAW 264.4 cell model assay, with no concomitant cytotoxic response. Dereplication and molecular networking analysis of the bioactive actinobacterial extracts showed the presence of some metabolites associated with known natural products, but one of the analyzed clusters did not show any match with the natural products described as responsible for these bioactivities. Overall, we were able to recover taxonomically diverse actinobacteria with different bioactivities from the studied deep-sea samples. The conjugation of culture-dependent and -independent methods allows a better understanding of the actinobacterial diversity of deep-sea environments, which is important for the optimization of approaches to obtain novel chemically-rich isolates.

Gamma-induced mutants of Bacillus and Streptomyces display enhanced antagonistic activities and suppression of the root rot and wilt diseases in pulses

This study aims to increase Bacillus and Streptomyces antagonistic activity against the root rot and wilt diseases of pulses caused by Macrophomina phaseolina and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. udum, respectively. To increase antagonistic action, Bacillus subtilis BRBac4, Bacillus siamensis BRBac21, and Streptomyces cavourensis BRAcB10 were subjected to random mutagenesis using varying doses of gamma irradiation (0.5–3.0 kGy). Following the irradiation, 250 bacterial colonies were chosen at random for each antagonistic strain and their effects against pathogens were evaluated in a plate assay. The ERIC, BOX, and random amplified polymorphic studies demonstrated a clear distinction between mutant and wild-type strains. When mutants were compared to wild-type strains, they showed improved plant growth-promoting characteristics and hydrolytic enzyme activity. The disease suppression potential of the selected mutants, B. subtilis BRBac4-M6, B. siamensisi BRBac21-M10, and S. cavourensis BRAcB10-M2, was tested in green gram, black gram, and red gram. The combined inoculation of B. siamensis BRBac21-M10 and S. cavourensis BRAcB10-M2 reduced the incidence of root rot and wilt disease. The same treatment also increased the activity of the defensive enzymes peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase. These findings suggested that gamma-induced mutation can be exploited effectively to improve the biocontrol characteristics of Bacillus and Streptomyces. Following the field testing, a combined bio-formulation of these two bacteria may be utilised to address wilt and root-rot pathogens in pulses.

Genes associated with antibiotic tolerance and synthesis of antimicrobial compounds in a mangrove with contrasting salinities

Salinity and wastewater pollution in mangrove ecosystems can affect microorganisms and the abundance of genes involved in response to these stressors. This research aimed to identify genes associated with resistance and biosynthesis of antimicrobial compounds in mangrove soils subjected to contrasting salinities and wastewater pollution. Samples of rhizospheric soil were taken from a mangrove at the mouth of the Ranchería River in La Guajira, Colombia. A functional analysis was performed using Illumina HiSeq 2500 sequencing data obtained from total DNA extracted. Increased salt concentration influenced metabolic pathways and differential abundance of genes associated with the synthesis of antimicrobial compounds (e.g., rfbB/rffG, INO1/ISYNA1, rfbA/rffH, sat/met3, asd). Also, among 33 genes involved in intrinsic antibiotic resistance, 16 were significantly influenced by salinity (e.g., cusR/copR/silR, vgb, tolC). We concluded that salt stress tolerance and adaptive mechanisms could favor the biosynthesis of antimicrobial compounds in mangroves contaminated by sewage.

Reconstructing Draft Genomes Using Genome Resolved Metagenomics Reveal Arsenic Metabolizing Genes and Secondary Metabolites in Fresh Water Lake in Eastern India

Rabindra Sarovar lake is an artificial freshwater lake in the arsenic infested eastern region of India. In this study, using the genome resolved metagenomics approach; we have deciphered the taxonomic diversity as well as the functional insights of the gene pools specific to this region. Initially, a total of 113 Metagenome Assembled Genomes (MAGs) were recovered from the two predominant seasons, that is, rainy (n = 50) and winter (n = 63). After bin refinement and de-replication, 27 MAGs (18 from Winter season and 9 from Rainy season) were reconstructed. These MAGs were either of high-quality (n = 10) or of medium quality (n = 17) that was determined based on genome completeness and contamination. These 27 MAGs spanning across 6 bacterial phyla and the most predominant ones were Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Cyanobacteria regardless of the season. Functional annotation across the MAGs suggested the existence of all known types of arsenic resistance and metabolism genes. Besides, important secondary metabolites such as zoocin_A, prochlorosin, and microcin were also abundantly present in these genomes. The metagenomic study of this lake provides the first insights into the microbiome composition and functional classification of the gene pools in two predominant seasons. The presence of arsenic metabolism and resistance genes in the recovered genomes is a sign of adaptation of the microbes to the arsenic contamination in this region. The presence of secondary metabolite genes in the lake microbiome has several implications including the potential use of these for the pharmaceutical industry.

Toxic effects of cadmium and lead exposure on intestinal histology, oxidative stress response, and microbial community of Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei

Cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) are two hazardous pollutants that threaten shrimp farming. The intestine is an important organ for digestion and immunity. We separately exposed Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei to 500 μg/L Cd or 500 μg/L Pb seawater for 7 days, and 45 shrimp from each group were used to evaluate the changes of intestinal histopathological, oxidative stress, and microbiota composition. After Cd and Pb exposure, shrimp intestine appeared significant mucosal damage and oxidative stress, and the microbiota variation were induced. Specifically, the abundance of the phyla Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria were induced, that of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were deduced. The abundances of putative beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus, Weissella, Demequina, Formosa and Ruegeria) and potentially pathogenic bacteria (Vibrio and Photobacterium) were fluctuated. Furthermore, the nutrient metabolic function of intestinal microbes was significantly altered. We concluded that Cd and Pb exposure had negative effects on the intestinal health of shrimp.

Diversity of actinobacteria in sediments of Qaidam Lake and Qinghai Lake, China

Using 16S rRNA gene analysis and high-throughput, the diversity and community structure of actinobacteria in the sediments of Qaidam Lake and Qinghai Lake with different salinity and alkalinity in Qinghai-Xizang Plateau were studied, and the differences of actinobacteria community structure and their relationship with environmental factors were discussed. A total of 77 genera belonging to actinobacteria were found in the samples, of which 31 genera were found in the sediment samples of Qaidam Lake with 19 genera being dominant genera, such as Actinomycetes, Corynebacterium, Morella, Bifidobacterium, and 69 genera were found in the sediment samples of Qinghai Lake with 17 genera becoming dominant, such as Ilumattalaer, Actinotalea, Aquihaans and so on. The correlation analysis of environmental factors and community showed that the community structure of the two salt lakes was mainly affected by total salinity, total organic carbon) (TOC) and CO₃^2-, among which TOC was the most influential factor. The functional differences of metabolic pathway enrichment analysis (KEGG) showed that there was a high abundance of metabolic-related functions in the two salt lakes. There were significant differences in the biosynthesis of energy metabolism and other secondary metabolites between the two salt lakes, which may be the main reason for the difference of actinomycete community. The results show that the actinobacteria diversity was rich in the plateau salt lakes, and affected by a variety of physicochemical factors. In addition, there were a large number of unculturable actinobacteria in the sediment, which provides a theoretical basis for the excavation and utilization of actinobacteria resources in salt lakes.

Taxogenomic and Comparative Genomic Analysis of the Genus Saccharomonospora Focused on the Identification of Biosynthetic Clusters PKS and NRPS

Actinobacteria are prokaryotes with a large biotechnological interest due to their ability to produce secondary metabolites, produced by two main biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs): polyketide synthase (PKS) and non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS). Most studies on bioactive products have been carried out on actinobacteria isolated from soil, freshwater or marine habitats, while very few have been focused on halophilic actinobacteria isolated from extreme environments. In this study we have carried out a comparative genomic analysis of the actinobacterial genus Saccharomonospora, which includes species isolated from soils, lake sediments, marine or hypersaline habitats. A total of 19 genome sequences of members of Saccharomonospora were retrieved and analyzed. We compared the 16S rRNA gene-based phylogeny of this genus with evolutionary relationships inferred using a phylogenomic approach obtaining almost identical topologies between both strategies. This method allowed us to unequivocally assign strains into species and to identify some taxonomic relationships that need to be revised. Our study supports a recent speciation event occurring between Saccharomonospora halophila and Saccharomonospora iraqiensis. Concerning the identification of BGCs, a total of 18 different types of BGCs were detected in the analyzed genomes of Saccharomonospora, including PKS, NRPS and hybrid clusters which might be able to synthetize 40 different putative products. In comparison to other genera of the Actinobacteria, members of the genus Saccharomonospora showed a high degree of novelty and diversity of BGCs.

Draft genome sequence of Promicromonospora panici sp. nov., a novel ionizing-radiation-resistant actinobacterium isolated from roots of the desert plant Panicum turgidum

A novel strain of the genus Promicromonospora, designated PT9^T, was recovered from irradiated roots of the xerophyte Panicum turgidum collected from the Ksar Ghilane oasis in southern Tunisia. Strain PT9^T is aerobic, non-spore-forming, Gram- positive actinomycete that produces branched hyphae and forms white to yellowish-white colonies. Chemotaxonomic features, including fatty acids, whole cell sugars and polar lipid profiles, support the assignment of PT9^T to the genus Promicromonospora. The genomic relatedness indexes based on DNA-DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values revealed a significant genomic divergence between strain PT9^T and all sequenced type strains of the taxon. Phylogenomic analysis showed that isolate PT9^T was most closely related to Promicromonospora soli CGMCC 4.7398^T. Phenotypic and phylogenomic analyses suggest that isolate PT9^T represents a novel species of the genus Promicromonospora, for which the name Promicromonospora panici sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is PT9^T (LMG 31103^T = DSM 108613^T).The isolate PT9^T is an ionizing-radiation-resistant actinobacterium (D₁₀ value = 2.6 kGy), with resistance to desiccation and hydrogen peroxide. The complete genome sequence of PT9^T consists of 6,582,650 bps with 71.2% G+C content and 6291 protein-coding sequences. This genome will help to decipher the microbial genetic bases for ionizing-radiation resistance mechanisms including the response to oxidative stress.

Phylogenetic and Physiological Diversity of Cultivable Actinomycetes Isolated From Alpine Habitats on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau

Actinomycetes in extreme alpine habitat have attracted much attention due to their unique physiological activities and functions. However, little is known about their ecological distribution and diversity. Here, we explored the phylogenetic relationship and physiological heterogeneity of cultivable actinomycetes from near-root soils of different plant communities in the Laohu Ditch (2200 - 4200 m) and Gaize County area (5018 - 5130 m) on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. A total of 128 actinomycete isolates were obtained, 16S rDNA-sequenced and examined for antimicrobial activities and organic acid, H₂S, diffusible pigments, various extracellular enzymes production. Seventy three isolates of the total seventy eight isolates from the Laohu Ditch, frequently isolated from 2200 to 4200 m, were closely related to Streptomyces spp. according to the 16S rDNA sequencing, while four isolates within the genus Nocardia spp. were found at 2200, 2800, and 3800 m. In addition, one potential novel isolate with 92% sequence similarity to its nearest match Micromonospora saelicesensis from the GenBank database, was obtained at 2200 m. From the Gaize County area, fifty Streptomyces isolates varied in diversity at different sites from 5018 to 5130 m. The investigation of phenotypic properties of 128 isolates showed that 94.5, 78.9, 68, 64.8, 53, 51.6, 50, 36.7, 31.2, and 22.7% of the total isolates produced catalase, lipase 2, urease, protease, H₂S, lipase 3, amylase, lipase 1, diffusible pigment and organic acid, respectively. The antimicrobial assays of the total isolates revealed that 5, 28, 19, and 2 isolates from Streptomyces spp. exhibited antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively. This study intends to bring helpful insights in the exploitation and utilization of alpine actinomycetes for novel bioactive compounds discovery.

Changes in the microbial community of Litopenaeus vannamei larvae and rearing water during different growth stages after disinfection treatment of hatchery water

Microbial communities greatly affect rearing water quality and the larvae health during shrimp hatchery periods. In this study, we investigated the microbial communities of rearing water and larvae of Litopenaeus vannamei after treating hatchery water with different kinds of chemical disinfectants: no disinfectants (Con), chlorine dioxide (ClO₂), formaldehyde solution (HCHO), bleach powder (CaClO), and iodine (I₂). The water and larval samples were collected from nauplius 6 (N6), zoea 1 (Z1), mysis 1 (M1), and postlarvae 1 (P1) shrimp growth periods. 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing revealed that the bacterial composition of the rearing water was more complex than that of the larvae, and the bacterial community of the rearing water and the larvae fluctuated significantly at the P1 and Z1 periods, respectively. Disinfectants altered the bacterial diversity and composition of the rearing water and larvae. Specifically, in the rearing water of the P1 period, Proteobacteria abundance was increased in the HCHO group; while Bacteroidetes abundance was decreased in the ClO₂, HCHO, and I₂ groups but increased in the CaClO group. In the larvae of the Z1 period, Firmicutes (especially Bacillus class) abundance was increased in the CaClO group, but decreased in the ClO₂, HCHO, and I₂ groups. Network analyses revealed that the genera Donghicola, Roseibacterium, Candidatus-Cquiluna, and Nautella were enriched in the rearing water, while Halomonas, Vibrio, and Flavirhabdus had high abundance in the larvae. The survival of shrimp was influenced by disinfectants that were inconsistent with the bacterial community changes. These results will be helpful for using microbial characteristics to facilitate healthy shrimp nursery.

Genotyping-Guided Discovery of Persiamycin A From Sponge-Associated Halophilic Streptomonospora sp. PA3

Microbial natural products have been a cornerstone of the pharmaceutical industry, but the supply of novel bioactive secondary metabolites has diminished due to extensive exploration of the most easily accessible sources, namely terrestrial Streptomyces species. The Persian Gulf is a unique habitat for marine sponges, which contain diverse communities of microorganisms including marine Actinobacteria. These exotic ecosystems may cradle rare actinomycetes with high potential to produce novel secondary metabolites. In this study, we harvested 12 different species of sponges from two locations in the Persian Gulf and isolated 45 symbiotic actinomycetes to assess their biodiversity and sponge-microbe relationships. The isolates were classified into Nocardiopsis (24 isolates), Streptomyces (17 isolates) and rare genera (4 isolates) by 16S rRNA sequencing. Antibiotic activity tests revealed that culture extracts from half of the isolates displayed growth inhibitory effects against seven pathogenic bacteria. Next, we identified five strains with the genetic potential to produce aromatic polyketides by genotyping ketosynthase genes responsible for synthesis of carbon scaffolds. The combined data led us to focus on Streptomonospora sp. PA3, since the genus has rarely been examined for its capacity to produce secondary metabolites. Analysis of culture extracts led to the discovery of a new bioactive aromatic polyketide denoted persiamycin A and 1-hydroxy-4-methoxy-2-naphthoic acid. The genome harbored seven gene clusters involved in secondary metabolism, including a tetracenomycin-type polyketide synthase pathway likely involved in persiamycin formation. The work demonstrates the use of multivariate data and underexplored ecological niches to guide the drug discovery process for antibiotics and anticancer agents.

Densities and inhibitory phenotypes among indigenous Streptomyces spp. vary across native and agricultural habitats

Streptomyces spp. perform vital roles in natural and agricultural soil ecosystems including in decomposition and nutrient cycling, promotion of plant growth and fitness, and plant disease suppression. Streptomyces densities can vary across the landscape, and inhibitory phenotypes are often a result of selection mediated by microbial competitive interactions in soil communities. Diverse environmental factors, including those specific to habitat, are likely to determine microbial densities in the soil and the outcomes of microbial species interactions. Here, we characterized indigenous Streptomyces densities and inhibitory phenotypes from soil samples (n = 82) collected in 6 distinct habitats across the Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve (CCESR; agricultural, prairie, savanna, wetland, wet-woodland, and forest). Significant variation in Streptomyces density and the frequency of antagonistic Streptomyces were observed among habitats. There was also significant variation in soil chemical properties among habitats, including percent carbon, percent nitrogen, available phosphorus, extractable potassium, and pH. Density and frequency of antagonists were significantly correlated with one or more environmental parameters across all habitats, though relationships with some parameters differed among habitats. In addition, we found that habitat rather than spatial proximity was a better predictor of variation in Streptomyces density and inhibitory phenotypes. Moreover, habitats least conducive for Streptomyces growth and proliferation, as determined by population density, had increased frequencies of inhibitory phenotypes. Identifying environmental parameters that structure variation in density and frequency of antagonistic Streptomyces can provide insight for determining factors that mediate selection for inhibitory phenotypes across the landscape.

High Efficacy of the Volatile Organic Compounds of Streptomyces yanglinensis 3-10 in Suppression of Aspergillus Contamination on Peanut Kernels

Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus are saprophytic fungi which can infect and contaminate preharvest and postharvest food/feed with production of aflatoxins (B1, B2, and G). They are also an opportunistic pathogen causing aspergillosis diseases of animals and humans. In this study, the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from Streptomyces yanglinensis 3-10 were found to be able to inhibit mycelial growth, sporulation, conidial germination, and expression of aflatoxin biosynthesis genes in A. flavus and A. parasiticus in vitro. On peanut kernels, the VOCs can also reduce the disease severity and inhibit the aflatoxins production by A. flavus and A. parasiticus under the storage conditions. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation showed that high dosage of the VOCs can inhibit conidial germination and colonization by the two species of Aspergillus on peanut kernels. The VOCs also showed suppression of mycelial growth on 18 other plant pathogenic fungi and one Oomycetes organism. By using SPME-GC-MS, 19 major VOCs were detected, like in other Streptomyces, 2-MIB was found as the main volatile component among the detected VOCs. Three standard chemicals, including methyl 2-methylbutyrate (M2M), 2-phenylethanol (2-PE), and β-caryophyllene (β-CA), showed antifungal activity against A. flavus and A. parasiticus. Among them, M2M showed highest inhibitory effect than other two standard compounds against conidial germination of A. flavus and A. parasiticus. To date, this is the first record about the antifungal activity of M2M against A. flavus and A. parasiticus. The VOCs from S. yanglinensis 3-10 did not affect growth of peanut seedlings. In conclusion, our results indicate that S. yanglinensis 3-10 may has a potential to become a promising biofumigant in for control of A. flavus and A. parasiticus.

Resistome in Lake Bolonha, Brazilian Amazon: Identification of Genes Related to Resistance to Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics

Resistance to antibiotics is one of the most relevant public health concerns in the world. Aquatic environments play an important role because they are reservoirs for antibiotic resistance genes and antibiotic-resistant strains, contributing to the spread of resistance. The present study investigated the resistome in Lake Bolonha (three sampling sites) in the Amazon region using a metagenomics approach and culture-dependent methods. Whole-metagenome-based results showed that the most abundant phyla were Protobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Cyanobacteria. The composition of the resistome demonstrated that the genes that confer resistance to β-lactams were prevalent at all sampling sites, followed by genes conferring resistance to aminoglycosides and tetracycline. Acquired genes encoding extended-spectrum β-lactamases (e.g., bla_CTX–M) and resistance to carbapenems (e.g., bla_IMP and bla_VIM) were detected through metagenome analysis. Bacteria were isolated from culture medium supplemented with cefotaxime or imipenem, and isolates were identified and analyzed for their antibiotic susceptibility profiles and resistance genes. In total, 98 bacterial isolates belonging to the genera Pseudomonas (37), Acinetobacter (32), Klebsiella (13), Enterobacter (9), Pantoe (3), Stenotrophomonas (3), and Methylobacterium (1) were obtained. Among isolates, the most abundant genes were bla_CTX–M (28.3%), bla_SHV (22.6%) and bla_TEM (18.8%) in isolates from cefotaxime-supplemented medium and bla_VIM (28.8%) and bla_IMP (22.2%) in isolates recovered from imipenem-supplemented medium. The genes intl1 and intl2 were detected in 19.3% and 7.1% of isolates. Antibiograms showed that 94.9% (from cefotaxime-supplemented medium) and 85.7% (from imipenem-supplemented medium) of the isolates were multidrug resistant. Besides cefotaxime and imipenem, isolates were mostly resistant to aztreonam (91.8%), amoxicillin (98.8%), ampicillin (82.6%), and nalidixic acid (77.5%). Hence, the present study demonstrates that Lake Bolonha is a reservoir of bacteria resistant to antibiotics and resistance genes, some of which are of critical importance to human health.

Antimicrobial profiling of coral reef and sponge associated bacteria from southeast coast of India

Culturable bacteria associated with marine sponges and coral mucus (collected from Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay) were screened for their prospective antimicrobial compounds against 9 bacterial pathogens (Bacillus megaterium, B. cereus, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus vulgaris, Klebsillla pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii) and a fungal pathogen (Candida albicans). Of the 263 bacterial isolates obtained during this study, 52 isolates displayed antimicrobial activity against one or more pathogens. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that these 52 strains affiliated to 14 genera from three phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Actinobacteria. Sponge associated bacterial strains F-04, I-23, I-33 and G-03 inhibited the growth of all the bacterial pathogens tested in this study and significantly the former 2 strains inhibited the growth of fungal pathogen also. Majority of the potential strains (88.4% out of 52 strains) inhibited the growth of Bacillus cereus. Interestingly, an actinomycete strain F-04 (isolated from sponge Orina sagittaria) inhibited the growth of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. In total, 10 volatile organic compounds were determined from the ethyl acetate and hexane extract of the strain F-04 using GC-MS. Overall, marine bacteria isolated during this study demonstrate the potential for the development of broad spectrum antibiotics.

Diversity, Ecology, and Prevalence of Antimicrobials in Nature

Microorganisms possess a variety of survival mechanisms, including the production of antimicrobials that function to kill and/or inhibit the growth of competing microorganisms. Studies of antimicrobial production have largely been driven by the medical community in response to the rise in antibiotic-resistant microorganisms and have involved isolated pure cultures under artificial laboratory conditions neglecting the important ecological roles of these compounds. The search for new natural products has extended to biofilms, soil, oceans, coral reefs, and shallow coastal sediments; however, the marine deep subsurface biosphere may be an untapped repository for novel antimicrobial discovery. Uniquely, prokaryotic survival in energy-limited extreme environments force microbial populations to either adapt their metabolism to outcompete or produce novel antimicrobials that inhibit competition. For example, subsurface sediments could yield novel antimicrobial genes, while at the same time answering important ecological questions about the microbial community.

Draft Genome Sequence of Freshwater-Derived Streptomyces sp. Strain BPSDS2, Isolated from Damte Stream, Northeast India

We report the draft genome sequence of Streptomyces sp. strain BPSDS2, isolated from freshwater sediments in Northeast India. The draft genome has a size of 8.27 Mb and 7,559 protein-coding sequences.

Enhancement of disease resistance, growth potential, and photosynthesis in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) by inoculation with an endophytic actinobacterium, Streptomyces thermocarboxydus strain BPSAC147

Biotic stresses in plants have a significant impact on agricultural productivity. In the present study, in vivo experiments were conducted to determine the physiological responses of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seedlings by inoculation with an endophytic actinobacterium, Streptomyces thermocarboxydus isolate BPSAC147 under greenhouse conditions. Further, photochemical quantum yield of photosystem II (PSII) (F_v/F_m), photochemical quenching (qP) and non-photochemical (NPQ) were calculated in seedlings inoculated with S. thermocarboxydus (T1) and were compared with control (T0) plants. Furthermore, the electron transport rate (ETR) of PSII exhibited a significant increase in T1 plants, relative to T0 plants. These results indicate that inoculation of tomato seedlings with S. thermocarboxydus had a positive effect on the process of photosynthesis, resulting in enhanced chlorophyll fluorescence parameters due to increased ETR in the thylakoid membrane. GC-MS analysis showed significant differences in the volatile compounds in the different treatments performed under greenhouse conditions. The present study suggests that S. thermocarboxydus can be used as new biocontrol agent to control Fusarium wilt in tomato crops and enhance productivity by enhancing photosynthesis.

Transcriptomic and microbiota response on Litopenaeus vannamei intestine subjected to acute sulfide exposure

Harmful effects of water pollutants are myriad. Sulfide from water bodies affects the aquatic animals. Intestine barrier function serves as the front-line of animals defense. Our previous study confirmed the toxic effect of sulfide on intestine immune response of Litopenaeus vannamei, but the underlying mechanisms remained elusive. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the transcriptomic and microbiota responses of the L. vannamei intestine subjected to acute sulfide exposure. Sulfide decreased bacterial richness and altered the intestine microbiota composition. Specifically, sulfide increased the abundances of Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria, but decreased the abundance of Proteobacteria. At the genus level, sulfide increased typical cellulolytic characteristics bacteria, such as Formosa, Sphingomonas, and Demequina. RNA-seq analysis identified differential expression of 1799 genes (701 up-regulated and 1098 down-regulated) were grouped into 267 pathways. The most enriched pathway 'amoebiasis' was related to the intestine mucus homeostasis. A number of immune-related genes associated with antimicrobial, antioxidant, pathogen attachment and recognition, and apoptosis processes in contrasting accessions; they were correlated with the abundance of intestine bacterial at the phylum level. This study provides an insight into the mechanisms associated with molecular and microbiota response and processes involved in adaptation strategies towards sulfide stress.

Changes in the intestine microbial, digestion and immunity of Litopenaeus vannamei in response to dietary resistant starch

Resistant starch (RS) is a constituent of dietary fibre that has beneficial effects on the intestine physiological function of animals. However, the roles of RS on shrimp intestine health is unknown. In this study, we investigated the the effects of dietary RS on the microbial composition, and digestive and immune-related indices in the intestine of Litopenaeus vannamei. The shrimp were fed with diets containing different levels of RS: 0 g/kg (Control), 10 g/kg (RS1), 30 g/kg (RS2) and 50 g/kg (RS3) for 56 days. The results showed that dietary RS improved the morphology of the intestine mucosa. RS also increased the activity of digestive enzymes (AMS, LPS, Tryp, and Pep) and immune enzymes (PO, T-AOC, T-NOS, and NO), and the expression levels of immune-related genes (proPO, ALF, Lys, HSP70, Trx, Muc-1, Muc-2, Muc-5AC, Muc-5B, and Muc-19). A microbiome analysis indicated that dietary RS increased the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) contents and altered the composition of the intestine microbial. Specifically, RS increased the abundances of Proteobacteria and decreased the abundance of Bacteroidetes. At the genus level, the beneficial bacteria (Lutimonas, Ruegeria, Shimia, Mesoflavibacter, and Mameliella) were enriched, which might be involved in degrading toxins and producing beneficial metabolites; while potential pathogens (Formosa and Pseudoalteromonas) were decreased in response to dietary RS. Our results revealed that dietary RS could improve the intestine health of L. vannamei, probably via modulating the intestine microbial composition and SCFAs contents, and enhancing the digestion and immunity of the shrimp.

Correction to: Bioprospection of actinobacteria derived from freshwater sediments for their potential to produce antimicrobial compounds

Upon publication of this article [1], it was brought to our attention that Figs. 3, 4 and 5 are incorrectly presented in the original version of the article. The figures were inadvertently swapped in the original submission and published. Figure 3 should be treated as Fig. 5; Fig. 4 should be 3 and Fig. 5 should be Fig. 4.