Comprehensive depiction of novel heavy metal tolerant and EPS producing bioluminescent Vibrio alginolyticus PBR1 and V. rotiferianus PBL1 confined from marine organisms

Vanadium Accumulation and Reduction by Vanadium-Accumulating Bacteria Isolated from the Intestinal Contents of Ciona robusta

The sea squirt Ciona robusta (formerly Ciona intestinalis type A) has been the subject of many interdisciplinary studies. Known as a vanadium-rich ascidian, C. robusta is an ideal model for exploring microbes associated with the ascidian and the roles of these microbes in vanadium accumulation and reduction. In this study, we discovered two bacterial strains that accumulate large amounts of vanadium, CD2-88 and CD2-102, which belong to the genera Pseudoalteromonas and Vibrio, respectively. The growth medium composition impacted vanadium uptake. Furthermore, pH was also an important factor in the accumulation and localization of vanadium. Most of the vanadium(V) accumulated by these bacteria was converted to less toxic vanadium(IV). Our results provide insights into vanadium accumulation and reduction by bacteria isolated from the ascidian C. robusta to further study the relations between ascidians and microbes and their possible applications for bioremediation or biomineralization.

Metagenomic analysis revealed the evolution of microbial communities, metabolic pathways, and functional genes in the heterotrophic nitrification-aerobic denitrification process under La3+ stress

Trivalent lanthanum (La3+) exists widely in ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N) tailing water from ionic rare earth mines; however, its effect on heterotrophic nitrification-aerobic denitrification (HN-AD) is unknown, thereby limiting the application of the HN-AD process in this field. In this study, we conducted an HN-AD process using a sequencing batch reactor (5 L) that was continuously operated to directly treat acidic (NH4)2SO4 wastewater (influent NH4+-N concentration of approximately 110 mg/L and influent pH of 5) containing different La3+ concentrations (0-100 mg/L). The NH4+-N removal efficiency of the reactor reached 98.25 % at a La3+ concentration of 100 mg/L. The reactor was in a neutral-to-alkaline environment, which favored La3+ precipitation and complexation. Metagenomic analysis revealed that the relative abundance of Thauera in the reactor remained high (88.62-92.27 %) under La3+ stress. The relative abundances of Pannonobacter and Hyphomonas significantly increased, whereas that of Azoarcus significantly decreased. Metabolic functions in the reactor were mainly contributed by Thauera, and the abundance of metabolic functions under low La3+ stress (≤5 mg/L) significantly differed from that under high La3+ stress (≥10 mg/L). The relative abundance of ammonia assimilation-related genes in the reactor was high and significantly correlated with ammonia removal. However, traditional ammonia oxidation genes were not annotated, and unknown ammonia oxidation pathways may have been present in the reactor. Moreover, La3+ stimulated amino acid biosynthesis and translocation, the citrate cycle, sulfur metabolism, and oxidative phosphorylation and promoted the overproduction of extracellular polymeric substances, which underwent complexation and adsorbed La3+ to reduce its toxicity. Our results showed that the HN-AD process had a strong tolerance to La3+, stable NH4+-N removal efficiency, the potential to recover La3+, and considerable application prospects in treating NH4+-N tailing water from ionic rare earth mines.

Variation of sulfate reducing bacteria communities in ionic rare earth tailings and the potential of a single cadmium resistant strain in bioremediation

Heap leaching ionic rare earth tailings might be prone to nourish sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB), but the SRB community in terrestrial ecosystems, such as tailings, has never been studied. This work was conducted to investigate the SRB communities in revegetated and bare tailings in Dingnan county, Jiangxi province, China, incorporating with indoor experiments to isolate SRB strain in bioremediation of Cd contamination. Significant increases in richness, accompanied by reductions in evenness and diversity, were found in the SRB community in revegetated tailings compared to bare tailings. At genus taxonomic level, two distinct dominant SRB were observed in samples from bare and revegetated tailings, with Desulfovibrio dominating in the former and Streptomyces dominating in the latter, respectively. A single SRB strain was screened out from the bare tailings (REO-01). The cell of REO-01 was rod-shaped and belonged to family Desulfuricans and genus Desulfovibrio. The Cd resistance of the strain was further examined, no changes in cell morphology were observed at 0.05 mM Cd, additionally, the atomic ratios of S, Cd, and Fe changed with the increase in Cd dosages, indicating FeS and CdS were produced simultaneously, XRD results further confirmed the production changed gradually from FeS to CdS with increasing Cd dosages from 0.05 to 0.2 mM. FT-IR analysis showed that functional groups containing amide, polysaccharide glycosidic linkage, hydroxyl, carboxy, methyl, phosphodiesters and sulfhydryl groups in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) of REO-01 might have affinity with Cd. This study demonstrated the potential of a single SRB strain isolated from ionic rare earth tailings in bioremediation of Cd contamination.

Isolation and characterization of a novel phage vB_ValP_VA-RY-3 infecting Vibrio alginolyticus

Vibrio alginolyticus is a common foodborne pathogen existing both in contaminated seafood and the environment and can cause serious mortality in aquaculture facilities. Bacteriophages can be used as an alternative bio-control agent to eliminate and reduce pathogens. In this study, a novel lytic phage, designated vB_ValP_VA-RY-3 (referred to as S1R3Y), was isolated from sewage collected in Dalian, China. The linear double-stranded DNA genome of phage S1R3Y is 40.271 kb, which has a mol% G + C content of 43.98, containing 51 ORFs with a T7-like genomic organization. It shared the closest relationship with phage vB_CsaP_Ss1, but the homology coverage is just 6%. S1R3Y lacks tRNA and no known virulence or lysogenic genes were found. S1R3Y had a burst size of 147 PFU/cell and is stable under different temperatures (4-56 °C) and pH (5.0-7.0). A comparison of its genomic features and phylogenetic analysis revealed that phage S1R3Y is a novel member of the order Caudovirales, family Podoviridae. Our results suggest that phage S1R3Y may represent a potential therapeutic agent against Vibrio alginolyticus.

Emerging Research Topics in the Vibrionaceae and the Squid-Vibrio Symbiosis

The Vibrionaceae encompasses a cosmopolitan group that is mostly aquatic and possesses tremendous metabolic and genetic diversity. Given the importance of this taxon, it deserves continued and deeper research in a multitude of areas. This review outlines emerging topics of interest within the Vibrionaceae. Moreover, previously understudied research areas are highlighted that merit further exploration, including affiliations with marine plants (seagrasses), microbial predators, intracellular niches, and resistance to heavy metal toxicity. Agarases, phototrophy, phage shock protein response, and microbial experimental evolution are also fields discussed. The squid-Vibrio symbiosis is a stellar model system, which can be a useful guiding light on deeper expeditions and voyages traversing these "seas of interest". Where appropriate, the squid-Vibrio mutualism is mentioned in how it has or could facilitate the illumination of these various subjects. Additional research is warranted on the topics specified herein, since they have critical relevance for biomedical science, pharmaceuticals, and health care. There are also practical applications in agriculture, zymology, food science, and culinary use. The tractability of microbial experimental evolution is explained. Examples are given of how microbial selection studies can be used to examine the roles of chance, contingency, and determinism (natural selection) in shaping Earth's natural history.

Exopolysaccharides from Marine Microbes: Source, Structure and Application

The unique living environment of marine microorganisms endows them with the potential to produce novel chemical compounds with various biological activities. Among them, the exopolysaccharides produced by marine microbes are an important factor for them to survive in these extreme environments. Up to now, exopolysaccharides from marine microbes, especially from extremophiles, have attracted more and more attention due to their structural complexity, biodegradability, biological activities, and biocompatibility. With the development of culture and separation methods, an increasing number of novel exopolysaccharides are being found and investigated. Here, the source, structure and biological activities of exopolysaccharides, as well as their potential applications in environmental restoration fields of the last decade are summarized, indicating the commercial potential of these versatile EPS in different areas, such as food, cosmetic, and biomedical industries, and also in environmental remediation.

Differential binding of LuxR in response to temperature gauges switches virulence gene expression in Vibrio alginolyticus

Vibrio pathogens must cope with temperature changes for proper thermo-adaptation and virulence gene expression. LuxR is a quorum-sensing (QS) master regulator of vibrios, playing roles in response to temperature alteration. However, the molecular mechanisms how LuxR is involved in adapting to different temperatures in bacteria have not been precisely elucidated. In this study, using chromatin immunoprecipitation and nucleotide sequencing (ChIP-seq), we identified 272 and 22 enriched loci harboring LuxR-binding peaks at ambient temperature (30 ˚C) and heat shock (42 ˚C) in the Vibrio alginolyticus genome, respectively. Analysis with the MEME (multiple EM for motif elicitation) algorithm indicated that the binding motifs of LuxR varied from temperatures. Three novel binding regions (the promoter of orf00292, orf00397 and fadD) of LuxR were identified and verified that the rising temperature causes the decreasing binding affinity of LuxR to these promoters. Meanwhile, the expression of orf00292, orf00397 and fadD were regulated by LuxR. Moreover, the weak binding of LuxR to the promoter of extracellular protease (Asp) was attributed to the attenuated Asp expression at thermal stress conditions. Taken together, our study demonstrated distinct binding characteristics of LuxR in response to temperature changes, thus highlighting LuxR as a thermo-sensor to switch and control virulence gene expression in V. alginolyticus.

Microbial silver resistance mechanisms: recent developments

In this mini-review, after a brief introduction into the widespread antimicrobial use of silver ions and nanoparticles against bacteria, fungi and viruses, the toxicity of silver compounds and the molecular mechanisms of microbial silver resistance are discussed, including recent studies on bacteria and fungi. The similarities and differences between silver ions and silver nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents are also mentioned. Regarding bacterial ionic silver resistance, the roles of the sil operon, silver cation efflux proteins, and copper-silver efflux systems are explained. The importance of bacterially produced exopolysaccharides as a physiological (biofilm) defense mechanism against silver nanoparticles is also emphasized. Regarding fungal silver resistance, the roles of metallothioneins, copper-transporting P-type ATPases and cell wall are discussed. Recent evolutionary engineering (adaptive laboratory evolution) studies are also discussed which revealed that silver resistance can evolve rapidly in bacteria and fungi. The cross-resistance observed between silver resistance and resistance to other heavy metals and antibiotics in bacteria and fungi is also explained as a clinically and environmentally important issue. The use of silver against bacterial and fungal biofilm formation is also discussed. Finally, the antiviral effects of silver and the use of silver nanoparticles against SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses are mentioned. To conclude, silver compounds are becoming increasingly important as antimicrobial agents, and their widespread use necessitates detailed understanding of microbial silver response and resistance mechanisms, as well as the ecological effects of silver compounds. Figure created with BioRender.com.

Adsorption and enrichment of U in a cellulase-producing Trichoderma sp. and its physiological response mechanism

The cellulase produced by Trichoderma sp. was characterized by investigating the adsorption and enrichment of U and the physiological response to U exposure. The effects of U exposure (0 and 400 μM) on the growth, morphological characteristics, cellulase production, U adsorption, and U enrichment capacity of the Trichoderma strain were assessed. The effects of U exposure on the basic metabolism of this fungus were also analyzed by non-targeted metabolomics. Exposure to U (400 μM) for 24 h resulted in OD₆₀₀ turbidity of 0.278, and activities of carboxymethyl cellulase (CMC), filter paper enzyme (FPA), and β-glucosidase of 12834 U·mL^-1, 9285 U·mL^-1, and 12574 U·mL^-1, respectively. The measurement of the background α and β radioactivity showed an α activity concentration of 3.35 × 10⁶ Bq·kg^-1 in the fungus, a β activity concentration of 6.28 × 10⁵ Bq·kg^-1, and a U enrichment rate of 70.4 ± 4.5%. GC-MS metabolomics analysis identified a total of 319 metabolites (34 up-regulated and 30 down-regulated), which mainly caused the metabolic imbalance of organic acids and derivatives. The alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolic pathways were the most significantly enriched. Trichoderma sp. therefore has a strong ability to tolerate/accumulate U and continues to produce cellulase under U (400 μM) exposure. However, U interferes with the basic metabolism of this fungus.

Development of Cellular and Enzymatic Bioluminescent Assay Systems to Study Low-Dose Effects of Thorium

Thorium is one of the most widespread radioactive elements in natural ecosystems, along with uranium, it is the most important source of nuclear energy. However, the effects of thorium on living organisms have not been thoroughly studied. Marine luminescent bacteria and their enzymes are optimal bioassays for studying low-dose thorium exposures. Luminescent bioassays provide a quantitative measure of toxicity and are characterized by high rates, sensitivity, and simplicity. It is known that the metabolic activity of bacteria is associated with the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We studied the effects of thorium-232 (10-11-10-3 M) on Photobacterium phosphoreum and bacterial enzymatic reactions; kinetics of bacterial bioluminescence and ROS content were investigated in both systems. Bioluminescence activation was revealed under low-dose exposures (<0.1 Gy) and discussed in terms of "radiation hormesis". The activation was accompanied by an intensification of the oxidation of a low-molecular reducer, NADH, during the enzymatic processes. Negative correlations were found between the intensity of bioluminescence and the content of ROS in bacteria and enzyme systems; an active role of ROS in the low-dose activation by thorium was discussed. The results contribute to radioecological potential of bioluminescence techniques adapted to study low-intensity radioactive exposures.

Deep-sea mercury resistant bacteria from the Central Indian Ocean: A potential candidate for mercury bioremediation

Deep-sea bacteria when grown in normal environmental conditions get morphologically and genetically adapted to resist the provided culture conditions for their survival, making them a possible aspirant in mercury bioremediation. In this study, seawater samples were collected from different depths of the Central Indian Ocean and seven mercury resistant bacteria (resistant to 100 mg L^-1 concentration of inorganic Hg as HgCl₂) were isolated. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the identified isolates belong to the genera Pseudomonas, Bacillus and Pseudoalteromonas. The presence of the merA gene in the isolates contributes to the effective volatilization of mercury. The Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass-Spectroscopy analysis revealed that the isolates can reduce up to >80% of inorganic mercury. Moreover, Fourier Transform Infrared spectrum analysis indicates that functional groups play a key role in the mechanism of adaptation towards Hg²⁺ reduction. Thus, the deep-sea bacteria expressed significant tolerance and reduction potential towards ionic mercury.

Metal-Pseudomonas veronii 2E Interactions as Strategies for Innovative Process Developments in Environmental Biotechnology

The increase of industrial discharges is the first cause of the contamination of water bodies. The bacterial survival strategies contribute to the equilibrium restoration of ecosystems being useful tools for the development of innovative environmental biotechnologies. The aim of this work was to study the Cu(II) and Cd(II) biosensing, removal and recovery, mediated by whole cells, exopolymeric substances (EPS) and biosurfactants of the indigenous and non-pathogenic Pseudomonas veronii 2E to be applied in the development of wastewater biotreatments. An electrochemical biosensor was developed using P. veronii 2E biosorption mechanism mediated by the cell surface associated to bound exopolymeric substances. A Carbon Paste Electrode modified with P. veronii 2E (CPEM) was built using mineral oil, pre-washed graphite power and 24 h-dried cells. For Cd(II) quantification the CPEM was immersed in Cd(II) (1-25 μM), detected by Square Wave Voltammetry. A similar procedure was used for 1-50 μM Cu(II). Regarding Cd(II), removal mediated by immobilized EPS was tested in a 50 ml bioreactor with 0.13 mM Cd(II), pH 7.5. A 54% metal retention by EPS was achieved after 7 h of continuous operation, while a 40% was removed by a control resin. In addition, surfactants produced by P. veronii 2E were studied for recovery of Cd(II) adsorbed on diatomite, obtaining a 36% desorption efficiency at pH 6.5. Cu(II) adsorption from a 1 mM solution was tested using P. veronii 2E purified soluble EPS in 50 mL- batch reactors (pH = 5.5, 32°C). An 80% of the initial Cu(II) was retained using 1.04 g immobilized EPS. Focusing on metal recovery, Cu nanoparticles (NPs) biosynthesis by P. veronii 2E was carried out in Cu(II)-PYG Broth at 25°C for 5 days. Extracellular CuNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectral analysis while both extracellular and intracellular NPs were analyzed by SEM and TEM techniques. Responses of P. veronii 2E and its products as biosurfactants, bound and soluble EPS allowed Cu(II) and Cd(II) removal, recovery and biosensing resulting in a multiple and versatile tool for sustainable wastewater biotreatments.