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Colman DR, Keller LM, Arteaga-Pozo E, Andrade-Barahona E, St Clair B, Shoemaker A, Cox A, Boyd ES. Covariation of hot spring geochemistry with microbial genomic diversity, function, and evolution. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7506. [PMID: 39209850 PMCID: PMC11362583 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51841-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The geosphere and the microbial biosphere have co-evolved for ~3.8 Ga, with many lines of evidence suggesting a hydrothermal habitat for life's origin. However, the extent that contemporary thermophiles and their hydrothermal habitats reflect those that likely existed on early Earth remains unknown. To address this knowledge gap, 64 geochemical analytes were measured and 1022 metagenome-assembled-genomes (MAGs) were generated from 34 chemosynthetic high-temperature springs in Yellowstone National Park and analysed alongside 444 MAGs from 35 published metagenomes. We used these data to evaluate co-variation in MAG taxonomy, metabolism, and phylogeny as a function of hot spring geochemistry. We found that cohorts of MAGs and their functions are discretely distributed across pH gradients that reflect different geochemical provinces. Acidic or circumneutral/alkaline springs harbor MAGs that branched later and are enriched in sulfur- and arsenic-based O2-dependent metabolic pathways that are inconsistent with early Earth conditions. In contrast, moderately acidic springs sourced by volcanic gas harbor earlier-branching MAGs that are enriched in anaerobic, gas-dependent metabolisms (e.g. H2, CO2, CH4 metabolism) that have been hypothesized to support early microbial life. Our results provide insight into the influence of redox state in the eco-evolutionary feedbacks between thermophiles and their habitats and suggest moderately acidic springs as early Earth analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Colman
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA.
| | - Lisa M Keller
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Emilia Arteaga-Pozo
- Department of Chemistry and Geochemistry, Montana Technological University, Butte, MT, USA
| | - Eva Andrade-Barahona
- Department of Chemistry and Geochemistry, Montana Technological University, Butte, MT, USA
| | - Brian St Clair
- Department of Chemistry and Geochemistry, Montana Technological University, Butte, MT, USA
| | - Anna Shoemaker
- Department of Earth Sciences, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Alysia Cox
- Department of Chemistry and Geochemistry, Montana Technological University, Butte, MT, USA
| | - Eric S Boyd
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA.
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2
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Shoemaker A, Maritan A, Cosar S, Nupp S, Menchaca A, Jackson T, Dang A, Baxter BK, Colman DR, Dunham EC, Boyd ES. Wood-Ljungdahl pathway encoding anaerobes facilitate low-cost primary production in hypersaline sediments at Great Salt Lake, Utah. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2024; 100:fiae105. [PMID: 39054286 PMCID: PMC11287216 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiae105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Little is known of primary production in dark hypersaline ecosystems despite the prevalence of such environments on Earth today and throughout its geologic history. Here, we generated and analyzed metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) organized as operational taxonomic units (OTUs) from three depth intervals along a 30-cm sediment core from the north arm of Great Salt Lake, Utah. The sediments and associated porewaters were saturated with NaCl, exhibited redox gradients with depth, and harbored nitrogen-depleted organic carbon. Metabolic predictions of MAGs representing 36 total OTUs recovered from the core indicated that communities transitioned from aerobic and heterotrophic at the surface to anaerobic and autotrophic at depth. Dark CO2 fixation was detected in sediments and the primary mode of autotrophy was predicted to be via the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway. This included novel hydrogenotrophic acetogens affiliated with the bacterial class Candidatus Bipolaricaulia. Minor populations were dependent on the Calvin cycle and the reverse tricarboxylic acid cycle, including in a novel Thermoplasmatota MAG. These results are interpreted to reflect the favorability of and selectability for populations that operate the lowest energy requiring CO2-fixation pathway known, the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway, in anoxic and hypersaline conditions that together impart a higher energy demand on cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Shoemaker
- Department of Earth Sciences, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173480, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
| | - Andrew Maritan
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173520, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
| | - Su Cosar
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173520, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
| | - Sylvia Nupp
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173400, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
| | - Ana Menchaca
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173520, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
| | - Thomas Jackson
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173520, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
| | - Aria Dang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173400, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
| | - Bonnie K Baxter
- Great Salt Lake Institute, Westminster University, 1840 South 1300 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84105, United States
| | - Daniel R Colman
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173520, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
| | - Eric C Dunham
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173520, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
| | - Eric S Boyd
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, P.O. Box 173520, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States
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3
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Mitchell JH, Freedman AH, Delaney JA, Girguis PR. Co-expression analysis reveals distinct alliances around two carbon fixation pathways in hydrothermal vent symbionts. Nat Microbiol 2024; 9:1526-1539. [PMID: 38839975 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-024-01704-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Most autotrophic organisms possess a single carbon fixation pathway. The chemoautotrophic symbionts of the hydrothermal vent tubeworm Riftia pachyptila, however, possess two functional pathways: the Calvin-Benson-Bassham (CBB) and the reductive tricarboxylic acid (rTCA) cycles. How these two pathways are coordinated is unknown. Here we measured net carbon fixation rates, transcriptional/metabolic responses and transcriptional co-expression patterns of Riftia pachyptila endosymbionts by incubating tubeworms collected from the East Pacific Rise at environmental pressures, temperature and geochemistry. Results showed that rTCA and CBB transcriptional patterns varied in response to different geochemical regimes and that each pathway is allied to specific metabolic processes; the rTCA is allied to hydrogenases and dissimilatory nitrate reduction, whereas the CBB is allied to sulfide oxidation and assimilatory nitrate reduction, suggesting distinctive yet complementary roles in metabolic function. Furthermore, our network analysis implicates the rTCA and a group 1e hydrogenase as key players in the physiological response to limitation of sulfide and oxygen. Net carbon fixation rates were also exemplary, and accordingly, we propose that co-activity of CBB and rTCA may be an adaptation for maintaining high carbon fixation rates, conferring a fitness advantage in dynamic vent environments.
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4
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St John E, Reysenbach AL. Genomic comparison of deep-sea hydrothermal genera related to Aeropyrum, Thermodiscus and Caldisphaera, and proposed emended description of the family Acidilobaceae. Syst Appl Microbiol 2024; 47:126507. [PMID: 38703419 DOI: 10.1016/j.syapm.2024.126507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Deep-sea hydrothermal vents host archaeal and bacterial thermophilic communities, including taxonomically and functionally diverse Thermoproteota. Despite their prevalence in high-temperature submarine communities, Thermoproteota are chronically under-represented in genomic databases and issues have emerged regarding their nomenclature, particularly within the Aeropyrum-Thermodiscus-Caldisphaera. To resolve some of these problems, we identified 47 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) within this clade, from 20 previously published deep-sea hydrothermal vent and submarine volcano metagenomes, and 24 MAGs from public databases. Using phylogenomic analysis, Genome Taxonomy Database Toolkit (GTDB-Tk) taxonomic assessment, 16S rRNA gene phylogeny, average amino acid identity (AAI) and functional gene patterns, we re-evaluated of the taxonomy of the Aeropyrum-Thermodiscus-Caldisphaera. At least nine genus-level clades were identified with two or more MAGs. In accordance with SeqCode requirements and recommendations, we propose names for three novel genera, viz. Tiamatella incendiivivens, Hestiella acidicharens and Calypsonella navitae. A fourth genus was also identified related to Thermodiscus maritimus, for which no available sequenced genome exists. We propose the novel species Thermodiscus eudorianus to describe our high-quality Thermodiscus MAG, which represents the type genome for the genus. All three novel genera and T. eudorianus are likely anaerobic heterotrophs, capable of fermenting protein-rich carbon sources, while some Tiamatella, Calypsonella and T. eudorianus may also reduce polysulfides, thiosulfate, sulfur and/or selenite, and the likely acidophile, Hestiella, may reduce nitrate and/or perchlorate. Based on phylogenomic evidence, we also propose the family Acidilobaceae be amended to include Caldisphaera, Aeropyrum, Thermodiscus and Stetteria and the novel genera described here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily St John
- Center for Life in Extreme Environments, Portland State University, Portland, OR 97201, USA.
| | - Anna-Louise Reysenbach
- Center for Life in Extreme Environments, Portland State University, Portland, OR 97201, USA.
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5
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Leung PM, Grinter R, Tudor-Matthew E, Lingford JP, Jimenez L, Lee HC, Milton M, Hanchapola I, Tanuwidjaya E, Kropp A, Peach HA, Carere CR, Stott MB, Schittenhelm RB, Greening C. Trace gas oxidation sustains energy needs of a thermophilic archaeon at suboptimal temperatures. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3219. [PMID: 38622143 PMCID: PMC11018855 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47324-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Diverse aerobic bacteria use atmospheric hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO) as energy sources to support growth and survival. Such trace gas oxidation is recognised as a globally significant process that serves as the main sink in the biogeochemical H2 cycle and sustains microbial biodiversity in oligotrophic ecosystems. However, it is unclear whether archaea can also use atmospheric H2. Here we show that a thermoacidophilic archaeon, Acidianus brierleyi (Thermoproteota), constitutively consumes H2 and CO to sub-atmospheric levels. Oxidation occurs across a wide range of temperatures (10 to 70 °C) and enhances ATP production during starvation-induced persistence under temperate conditions. The genome of A. brierleyi encodes a canonical CO dehydrogenase and four distinct [NiFe]-hydrogenases, which are differentially produced in response to electron donor and acceptor availability. Another archaeon, Metallosphaera sedula, can also oxidize atmospheric H2. Our results suggest that trace gas oxidation is a common trait of Sulfolobales archaea and may play a role in their survival and niche expansion, including during dispersal through temperate environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pok Man Leung
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - Rhys Grinter
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Eve Tudor-Matthew
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - James P Lingford
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Luis Jimenez
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Han-Chung Lee
- Monash Proteomics and Metabolomics Platform and Department of Biochemistry, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Michael Milton
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Iresha Hanchapola
- Monash Proteomics and Metabolomics Platform and Department of Biochemistry, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Erwin Tanuwidjaya
- Monash Proteomics and Metabolomics Platform and Department of Biochemistry, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Ashleigh Kropp
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Hanna A Peach
- Geomicrobiology Research Group, Department of Geothermal Sciences, Te Pū Ao | GNS Science, Wairakei, Taupō, 3377, Aotearoa New Zealand
| | - Carlo R Carere
- Geomicrobiology Research Group, Department of Geothermal Sciences, Te Pū Ao | GNS Science, Wairakei, Taupō, 3377, Aotearoa New Zealand
- Te Tari Pūhanga Tukanga Matū | Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury, Christchurch, 8140, Aotearoa New Zealand
| | - Matthew B Stott
- Geomicrobiology Research Group, Department of Geothermal Sciences, Te Pū Ao | GNS Science, Wairakei, Taupō, 3377, Aotearoa New Zealand
- Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora | School of Biological Sciences, Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury, Christchurch, 8140, Aotearoa New Zealand
| | - Ralf B Schittenhelm
- Monash Proteomics and Metabolomics Platform and Department of Biochemistry, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Chris Greening
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
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6
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Rhim JH, Zhou A, Amenabar MJ, Boyer GM, Elling FJ, Weber Y, Pearson A, Boyd ES, Leavitt WD. Mode of carbon and energy metabolism shifts lipid composition in the thermoacidophile Acidianus. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0136923. [PMID: 38236067 PMCID: PMC10880624 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01369-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The degree of cyclization, or ring index (RI), in archaeal glycerol dibiphytanyl glycerol tetraether (GDGT) lipids was long thought to reflect homeoviscous adaptation to temperature. However, more recent experiments show that other factors (e.g., pH, growth phase, and energy flux) can also affect membrane composition. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effect of carbon and energy metabolism on membrane cyclization. To do so, we cultivated Acidianus sp. DS80, a metabolically flexible and thermoacidophilic archaeon, on different electron donor, acceptor, and carbon source combinations (S0/Fe3+/CO2, H2/Fe3+/CO2, H2/S0/CO2, or H2/S0/glucose). We show that differences in energy and carbon metabolism can result in over a full unit of change in RI in the thermoacidophile Acidianus sp. DS80. The patterns in RI correlated with the normalized electron transfer rate between the electron donor and acceptor and did not always align with thermodynamic predictions of energy yield. In light of this, we discuss other factors that may affect the kinetics of cellular energy metabolism: electron transfer chain (ETC) efficiency, location of ETC reaction components (cytoplasmic vs. extracellular), and the physical state of electron donors and acceptors (gas vs. solid). Furthermore, the assimilation of a more reduced form of carbon during heterotrophy appears to decrease the demand for reducing equivalents during lipid biosynthesis, resulting in lower RI. Together, these results point to the fundamental role of the cellular energy state in dictating GDGT cyclization, with those cells experiencing greater energy limitation synthesizing more cyclized GDGTs.IMPORTANCESome archaea make unique membrane-spanning lipids with different numbers of five- or six-membered rings in the core structure, which modulate membrane fluidity and permeability. Changes in membrane core lipid composition reflect the fundamental adaptation strategies of archaea in response to stress, but multiple environmental and physiological factors may affect the needs for membrane fluidity and permeability. In this study, we tested how Acidianus sp. DS80 changed its core lipid composition when grown with different electron donor/acceptor pairs. We show that changes in energy and carbon metabolisms significantly affected the relative abundance of rings in the core lipids of DS80. These observations highlight the need to better constrain metabolic parameters, in addition to environmental factors, which may influence changes in membrane physiology in Archaea. Such consideration would be particularly important for studying archaeal lipids from habitats that experience frequent environmental fluctuations and/or where metabolically diverse archaea thrive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeemin H. Rhim
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Alice Zhou
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Maximiliano J. Amenabar
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA
| | - Grayson M. Boyer
- School of Earth and Space Exploration, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Felix J. Elling
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Leibniz-Laboratory for Radiometric Dating and Isotope Research, Christian-Albrecht University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Yuki Weber
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ann Pearson
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eric S. Boyd
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA
| | - William D. Leavitt
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
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Wells M, Kim M, Akob DM, Basu P, Stolz JF. Impact of the Dimethyl Sulfoxide Reductase Superfamily on the Evolution of Biogeochemical Cycles. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0414522. [PMID: 36951557 PMCID: PMC10100899 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04145-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The dimethyl sulfoxide reductase (or MopB) family is a diverse assemblage of enzymes found throughout Bacteria and Archaea. Many of these enzymes are believed to have been present in the last universal common ancestor (LUCA) of all cellular lineages. However, gaps in knowledge remain about how MopB enzymes evolved and how this diversification of functions impacted global biogeochemical cycles through geologic time. In this study, we perform maximum likelihood phylogenetic analyses on manually curated comparative genomic and metagenomic data sets containing over 47,000 distinct MopB homologs. We demonstrate that these enzymes constitute a catalytically and mechanistically diverse superfamily defined not by the molybdopterin- or tungstopterin-containing [molybdopterin or tungstopterin bis(pyranopterin guanine dinucleotide) (Mo/W-bisPGD)] cofactor but rather by the structural fold that binds it in the protein. Our results suggest that major metabolic innovations were the result of the loss of the metal cofactor or the gain or loss of protein domains. Phylogenetic analyses also demonstrated that formate oxidation and CO2 reduction were the ancestral functions of the superfamily, traits that have been vertically inherited from the LUCA. Nearly all of the other families, which drive all other biogeochemical cycles mediated by this superfamily, originated in the bacterial domain. Thus, organisms from Bacteria have been the key drivers of catalytic and biogeochemical innovations within the superfamily. The relative ordination of MopB families and their associated catalytic activities emphasize fundamental mechanisms of evolution in this superfamily. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of prokaryotic adaptability in response to the transition from an anoxic to an oxidized atmosphere. IMPORTANCE The MopB superfamily constitutes a repertoire of metalloenzymes that are central to enduring mysteries in microbiology, from the origin of life and how microorganisms and biogeochemical cycles have coevolved over deep time to how anaerobic life adapted to increasing concentrations of O2 during the transition from an anoxic to an oxic world. Our work emphasizes that phylogenetic analyses can reveal how domain gain or loss events, the acquisition of novel partner subunits, and the loss of metal cofactors can stimulate novel radiations of enzymes that dramatically increase the catalytic versatility of superfamilies. We also contend that the superfamily concept in protein evolution can uncover surprising kinships between enzymes that have remarkably different catalytic and physiological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Wells
- Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Minjae Kim
- Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Denise M. Akob
- United States Geological Survey, Geology, Energy, and Minerals Science Center, Reston, Virginia, USA
| | - Partha Basu
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - John F. Stolz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Wang S, Jiang L, Cui L, Alain K, Xie S, Shao Z. Transcriptome Analysis of Cyclooctasulfur Oxidation and Reduction by the Neutrophilic Chemolithoautotrophic Sulfurovum indicum from Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Ecosystems. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030627. [PMID: 36978876 PMCID: PMC10045233 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemolithoautotrophic Campylobacterota are widespread and predominant in worldwide hydrothermal vents, and they are key players in the turnover of zero-valence sulfur. However, at present, the mechanism of cyclooctasulfur activation and catabolism in Campylobacterota bacteria is not clearly understood. Here, we investigated these processes in a hydrothermal vent isolate named Sulfurovum indicum ST-419. A transcriptome analysis revealed that multiple genes related to biofilm formation were highly expressed during both sulfur oxidation and reduction. Additionally, biofilms containing cells and EPS coated on sulfur particles were observed by SEM, suggesting that biofilm formation may be involved in S0 activation in Sulfurovum species. Meanwhile, several genes encoding the outer membrane proteins of OprD family were also highly expressed, and among them, gene IMZ28_RS00565 exhibited significantly high expressions by 2.53- and 7.63-fold changes under both conditions, respectively, which may play a role in sulfur uptake. However, other mechanisms could be involved in sulfur activation and uptake, as experiments with dialysis bags showed that direct contact between cells and sulfur particles was not mandatory for sulfur reduction activity, whereas cell growth via sulfur oxidation did require direct contact. This indirect reaction could be ascribed to the role of H2S and/or other thiol-containing compounds, such as cysteine and GSH, which could be produced in the culture medium during sulfur reduction. In the periplasm, the sulfur-oxidation-multienzyme complexes soxABXY1Z1 and soxCDY2Z2 are likely responsible for thiosulfate oxidation and S0 oxidation, respectively. In addition, among the four psr gene clusters encoding polysulfide reductases, only psrA3B3C3 was significantly upregulated under the sulfur reduction condition, implying its essential role in sulfur reduction. These results expand our understanding of the interactions of Campylobacterota with the zero-valence sulfur and their adaptability to deep-sea hydrothermal environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shasha Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Marine Genetic Resources, Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources of Fujian Province, Xiamen 361005, China
- Sino-French Laboratory of Deep-Sea Microbiology (MicrobSea), Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Lijing Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Marine Genetic Resources, Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources of Fujian Province, Xiamen 361005, China
- Sino-French Laboratory of Deep-Sea Microbiology (MicrobSea), Xiamen 361005, China
- Correspondence: (L.J.); (Z.S.)
| | - Liang Cui
- Department of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Karine Alain
- CNRS, Université Brest, Ifremer, Unité Biologie et Ecologie des Ecosystèmes Marins Profonds BEEP, UMR 6197, IRP 1211 MicrobSea, IUEM, Rue Dumont d’Urville, F-29280 Plouzané, France
| | - Shaobin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Marine Genetic Resources, Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources of Fujian Province, Xiamen 361005, China
- Sino-French Laboratory of Deep-Sea Microbiology (MicrobSea), Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Zongze Shao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Marine Genetic Resources, Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources of Fujian Province, Xiamen 361005, China
- Sino-French Laboratory of Deep-Sea Microbiology (MicrobSea), Xiamen 361005, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519000, China
- Correspondence: (L.J.); (Z.S.)
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9
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Han S, Li Y, Gao H. Generation and Physiology of Hydrogen Sulfide and Reactive Sulfur Species in Bacteria. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11122487. [PMID: 36552695 PMCID: PMC9774590 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11122487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sulfur is not only one of the most abundant elements on the Earth, but it is also essential to all living organisms. As life likely began and evolved in a hydrogen sulfide (H2S)-rich environment, sulfur metabolism represents an early form of energy generation via various reactions in prokaryotes and has driven the sulfur biogeochemical cycle since. It has long been known that H2S is toxic to cells at high concentrations, but now this gaseous molecule, at the physiological level, is recognized as a signaling molecule and a regulator of critical biological processes. Recently, many metabolites of H2S, collectively called reactive sulfur species (RSS), have been gradually appreciated as having similar or divergent regulatory roles compared with H2S in living organisms, especially mammals. In prokaryotes, even in bacteria, investigations into generation and physiology of RSS remain preliminary and an understanding of the relevant biological processes is still in its infancy. Despite this, recent and exciting advances in the fields are many. Here, we discuss abiotic and biotic generation of H2S/RSS, sulfur-transforming enzymes and their functioning mechanisms, and their physiological roles as well as the sensing and regulation of H2S/RSS.
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10
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Liang J, Huang H, Wang Y, Li L, Yi J, Wang S. A Cytoplasmic NAD(P)H-Dependent Polysulfide Reductase with Thiosulfate Reductase Activity from the Hyperthermophilic Bacterium Thermotoga maritima. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0043622. [PMID: 35762779 PMCID: PMC9431562 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00436-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Thermotoga maritima is an anaerobic hyperthermophilic bacterium that efficiently produces H2 by fermenting carbohydrates. High concentration of H2 inhibits the growth of T. maritima, and S0 could eliminate the inhibition and stimulate the growth through its reduction. The mechanism of T. maritima sulfur reduction, however, has not been fully understood. Herein, based on its similarity with archaeal NAD(P)H-dependent sulfur reductases (NSR), the ORF THEMA_RS02810 was identified and expressed in Escherichia coli, and the recombinant protein was characterized. The purified flavoprotein possessed NAD(P)H-dependent S0 reductase activity (1.3 U/mg for NADH and 0.8 U/mg for NADPH), polysulfide reductase activity (0.32 U/mg for NADH and 0.35 U/mg for NADPH), and thiosulfate reductase activity (2.3 U/mg for NADH and 2.5 U/mg for NADPH), which increased 3~4-folds by coenzyme A stimulation. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed that nsr was upregulated together with the mbx, yeeE, and rnf genes when the strain grew in S0- or thiosulfate-containing medium. The mechanism for sulfur reduction in T. maritima was discussed, which may affect the redox balance and energy metabolism of T. maritima. Genome search revealed that NSR homolog is widely distributed in thermophilic bacteria and archaea, implying its important role in the sulfur cycle of geothermal environments. IMPORTANCE The reduction of S0 and thiosulfate is essential in the sulfur cycle of geothermal environments, in which thermophiles play an important role. Despite previous research on some sulfur reductases of thermophilic archaea, the mechanism of sulfur reduction in thermophilic bacteria is still not clearly understood. Herein, we confirmed the presence of a cytoplasmic NAD(P)H-dependent polysulfide reductase (NSR) from the hyperthermophile T. maritima, with S0, polysulfide, and thiosulfate reduction activities, in contrast to other sulfur reductases. When grown in S0- or thiosulfate-containing medium, its expression was upregulated. And the putative membrane-bound MBX and Rnf may also play a role in the metabolism, which might influence the redox balance and energy metabolism of T. maritima. This is distinct from the mechanism of sulfur reduction in mesophiles such as Wolinella succinogenes. NSR homologs are widely distributed among heterotrophic thermophiles, suggesting that they may be vital in the sulfur cycle in geothermal environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Microbial Technology Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haiyan Huang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yubo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Microbial Technology Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lexin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Microbial Technology Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jihong Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Microbial Technology Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuning Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Microbial Technology Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
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11
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Ferreira P, Fernandes P, Ramos M. The archaeal non-heme iron-containing Sulfur Oxygenase Reductase. Coord Chem Rev 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2021.214358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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12
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Modularity of membrane-bound charge-translocating protein complexes. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2669-2685. [PMID: 34854900 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Energy transduction is the conversion of one form of energy into another; this makes life possible as we know it. Organisms have developed different systems for acquiring energy and storing it in useable forms: the so-called energy currencies. A universal energy currency is the transmembrane difference of electrochemical potential (Δμ~). This results from the translocation of charges across a membrane, powered by exergonic reactions. Different reactions may be coupled to charge-translocation and, in the majority of cases, these reactions are catalyzed by modular enzymes that always include a transmembrane subunit. The modular arrangement of these enzymes allows for different catalytic and charge-translocating modules to be combined. Thus, a transmembrane charge-translocating module can be associated with different catalytic subunits to form an energy-transducing complex. Likewise, the same catalytic subunit may be combined with a different membrane charge-translocating module. In this work, we analyze the modular arrangement of energy-transducing membrane complexes and discuss their different combinations, focusing on the charge-translocating module.
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13
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Liu LJ, Jiang Z, Wang P, Qin YL, Xu W, Wang Y, Liu SJ, Jiang CY. Physiology, Taxonomy, and Sulfur Metabolism of the Sulfolobales, an Order of Thermoacidophilic Archaea. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:768283. [PMID: 34721370 PMCID: PMC8551704 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.768283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The order Sulfolobales (phylum Crenarchaeota) is a group of thermoacidophilic archaea. The first member of the Sulfolobales was discovered in 1972, and current 23 species are validly named under the International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes. The majority of members of the Sulfolobales is obligately or facultatively chemolithoautotrophic. When they grow autotrophically, elemental sulfur or reduced inorganic sulfur compounds are their energy sources. Therefore, sulfur metabolism is the most important physiological characteristic of the Sulfolobales. The functions of some enzymes and proteins involved in sulfur reduction, sulfur oxidation, sulfide oxidation, thiosulfate oxidation, sulfite oxidation, tetrathionate hydrolysis, and sulfur trafficking have been determined. In this review, we describe current knowledge about the physiology, taxonomy, and sulfur metabolism of the Sulfolobales, and note future challenges in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jun Liu
- School of Basic Medical Science, the Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Resources Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Pei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Ling Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Xu
- School of Basic Medical Science, the Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Resources Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yang Wang
- School of Basic Medical Science, the Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Resources Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shuang-Jiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng-Ying Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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14
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Yu Q, Sun W, Gao H. Thiosulfate oxidation in sulfur-reducing Shewanella oneidensis and its unexpected influences on the cytochrome c content. Environ Microbiol 2021; 23:7056-7072. [PMID: 34664382 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Thiosulfate, an important form of sulfur compounds, can serve as both electron donor and acceptor in various microorganisms. In Shewanella oneidensis, a bacterium renowned for respiratory versatility, thiosulfate reduction has long been recognized but whether it can catalyse thiosulfate oxidation remains elusive. In this study, we discovered that S. oneidensis is capable of thiosulfate oxidation, a process specifically catalysed by two periplasmic cytochrome c (cyt c) proteins, TsdA and TsdB, which act as the catalytic subunit and the electron transfer subunit respectively. In the presence of oxygen, oxidation of thiosulfate has priority over reduction. Intriguingly, thiosulfate oxidation negatively regulates the cyt c content in S. oneidensis cells, largely by reducing intracellular levels of cAMP, which as the cofactor modulates activity of global regulator Crp required for transcription of many cyt c genes. This unexpected finding provides an additional dimension to interplays between the respiration regulator and the respiratory pathways in S. oneidensis. Moreover, the data presented here identified S. oneidensis as the first bacterium known to date owning both functional thiosulfate reductase and dehydrogenase, and importantly, genomics analyses suggested that the number of bacterial species possessing this feature is rather limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingzi Yu
- Institute of Microbiology and College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Weining Sun
- Institute of Microbiology and College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Haichun Gao
- Institute of Microbiology and College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, 310058, China
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15
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Medvedeva S, Brandt D, Cvirkaite-Krupovic V, Liu Y, Severinov K, Ishino S, Ishino Y, Prangishvili D, Kalinowski J, Krupovic M. New insights into the diversity and evolution of the archaeal mobilome from three complete genomes of Saccharolobus shibatae. Environ Microbiol 2021; 23:4612-4630. [PMID: 34190379 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Saccharolobus (formerly Sulfolobus) shibatae B12, isolated from a hot spring in Beppu, Japan in 1982, is one of the first hyperthermophilic and acidophilic archaeal species to be discovered. It serves as a natural host to the extensively studied spindle-shaped virus SSV1, a prototype of the Fuselloviridae family. Two additional Sa. shibatae strains, BEU9 and S38A, sensitive to viruses of the families Lipothrixviridae and Portogloboviridae, respectively, have been isolated more recently. However, none of the strains has been fully sequenced, limiting their utility for studies on archaeal biology and virus-host interactions. Here, we present the complete genome sequences of all three Sa. shibatae strains and explore the rich diversity of their integrated mobile genetic elements (MGE), including transposable insertion sequences, integrative and conjugative elements, plasmids, and viruses, some of which were also detected in the extrachromosomal form. Analysis of related MGEs in other Sulfolobales species and patterns of CRISPR spacer targeting revealed a complex network of MGE distributions, involving horizontal spread and relatively frequent host switching by MGEs over large phylogenetic distances, involving species of the genera Saccharolobus, Sulfurisphaera and Acidianus. Furthermore, we characterize a remarkable case of a virus-to-plasmid transition, whereby a fusellovirus has lost the genes encoding for the capsid proteins, while retaining the replication module, effectively becoming a plasmid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Medvedeva
- Archaeal Virology Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, 75015, France.,Center of Life Science, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, 121205, Russia
| | - David Brandt
- Center for Biotechnology, Universität Bielefeld, Bielefeld, 33615, Germany
| | | | - Ying Liu
- Archaeal Virology Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, 75015, France
| | - Konstantin Severinov
- Center of Life Science, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, 121205, Russia.,Waksman Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA.,Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 123182, Russia
| | - Sonoko Ishino
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan
| | - Yoshizumi Ishino
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan
| | - David Prangishvili
- Archaeal Virology Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, 75015, France.,Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Tbilisi, 0179, Georgia
| | - Jörn Kalinowski
- Center for Biotechnology, Universität Bielefeld, Bielefeld, 33615, Germany
| | - Mart Krupovic
- Archaeal Virology Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, 75015, France
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16
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Counts JA, Willard DJ, Kelly RM. Life in hot acid: a genome-based reassessment of the archaeal order Sulfolobales. Environ Microbiol 2021; 23:3568-3584. [PMID: 32776389 PMCID: PMC10560490 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The order Sulfolobales was one of the first named Archaeal lineages, with globally distributed members from terrestrial thermal acid springs (pH < 4; T > 65°C). The Sulfolobales represent broad metabolic capabilities, ranging from lithotrophy, based on inorganic iron and sulfur biotransformations, to autotrophy, to chemoheterotrophy in less acidophilic species. Components of the 3-hydroxypropionate/4-hydroxybutyrate carbon fixation cycle, as well as sulfur oxidation, are nearly universally conserved, although dissimilatory sulfur reduction and disproportionation (Acidianus, Stygiolobus and Sulfurisphaera) and iron oxidation (Acidianus, Metallosphaera, Sulfurisphaera, Sulfuracidifex and Sulfodiicoccus) are limited to fewer lineages. Lithotrophic marker genes appear more often in highly acidophilic lineages. Despite the presence of facultative anaerobes and one confirmed obligate anaerobe, oxidase complexes (fox, sox, dox and a new putative cytochrome bd) are prevalent in many species (even facultative/obligate anaerobes), suggesting a key role for oxygen among the Sulfolobales. The presence of fox genes tracks with a putative antioxidant OsmC family peroxiredoxin, an indicator of oxidative stress derived from mixing reactive metals and oxygen. Extreme acidophily appears to track inversely with heterotrophy but directly with lithotrophy. Recent phylogenetic re-organization efforts are supported by the comparative genomics here, although several changes are proposed, including the expansion of the genus Saccharolobus.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A. Counts
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA
| | - Daniel J. Willard
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA
| | - Robert M. Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA
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17
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van Vliet DM, von Meijenfeldt FB, Dutilh BE, Villanueva L, Sinninghe Damsté JS, Stams AJ, Sánchez‐Andrea I. The bacterial sulfur cycle in expanding dysoxic and euxinic marine waters. Environ Microbiol 2021; 23:2834-2857. [PMID: 33000514 PMCID: PMC8359478 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Dysoxic marine waters (DMW, < 1 μM oxygen) are currently expanding in volume in the oceans, which has biogeochemical, ecological and societal consequences on a global scale. In these environments, distinct bacteria drive an active sulfur cycle, which has only recently been recognized for open-ocean DMW. This review summarizes the current knowledge on these sulfur-cycling bacteria. Critical bottlenecks and questions for future research are specifically addressed. Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) are core members of DMW. However, their roles are not entirely clear, and they remain largely uncultured. We found support for their remarkable diversity and taxonomic novelty by mining metagenome-assembled genomes from the Black Sea as model ecosystem. We highlight recent insights into the metabolism of key sulfur-oxidizing SUP05 and Sulfurimonas bacteria, and discuss the probable involvement of uncultivated SAR324 and BS-GSO2 bacteria in sulfur oxidation. Uncultivated Marinimicrobia bacteria with a presumed organoheterotrophic metabolism are abundant in DMW. Like SRB, they may use specific molybdoenzymes to conserve energy from the oxidation, reduction or disproportionation of sulfur cycle intermediates such as S0 and thiosulfate, produced from the oxidation of sulfide. We expect that tailored sampling methods and a renewed focus on cultivation will yield deeper insight into sulfur-cycling bacteria in DMW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daan M. van Vliet
- Laboratory of MicrobiologyWageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708WEWageningenNetherlands
| | | | - Bas E. Dutilh
- Theoretical Biology and Bioinformatics, Science for LifeUtrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CHUtrechtNetherlands
| | - Laura Villanueva
- Department of Marine Microbiology and BiogeochemistryRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ), Utrecht University, Landsdiep 4, 1797 SZ, 'tHorntje (Texel)Netherlands
| | - Jaap S. Sinninghe Damsté
- Department of Marine Microbiology and BiogeochemistryRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ), Utrecht University, Landsdiep 4, 1797 SZ, 'tHorntje (Texel)Netherlands
- Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of GeosciencesUtrecht University, Princetonlaan 8A, 3584 CBUtrechtNetherlands
| | - Alfons J.M. Stams
- Laboratory of MicrobiologyWageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708WEWageningenNetherlands
- Centre of Biological EngineeringUniversity of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710‐057BragaPortugal
| | - Irene Sánchez‐Andrea
- Laboratory of MicrobiologyWageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708WEWageningenNetherlands
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18
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Calisto F, Pereira MM. The Ion-Translocating NrfD-Like Subunit of Energy-Transducing Membrane Complexes. Front Chem 2021; 9:663706. [PMID: 33928068 PMCID: PMC8076601 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.663706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Several energy-transducing microbial enzymes have their peripheral subunits connected to the membrane through an integral membrane protein, that interacts with quinones but does not have redox cofactors, the so-called NrfD-like subunit. The periplasmic nitrite reductase (NrfABCD) was the first complex recognized to have a membrane subunit with these characteristics and consequently provided the family's name: NrfD. Sequence analyses indicate that NrfD homologs are present in many diverse enzymes, such as polysulfide reductase (PsrABC), respiratory alternative complex III (ACIII), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) reductase (DmsABC), tetrathionate reductase (TtrABC), sulfur reductase complex (SreABC), sulfite dehydrogenase (SoeABC), quinone reductase complex (QrcABCD), nine-heme cytochrome complex (NhcABCD), group-2 [NiFe] hydrogenase (Hyd-2), dissimilatory sulfite-reductase complex (DsrMKJOP), arsenate reductase (ArrC) and multiheme cytochrome c sulfite reductase (MccACD). The molecular structure of ACIII subunit C (ActC) and Psr subunit C (PsrC), NrfD-like subunits, revealed the existence of ion-conducting pathways. We performed thorough primary structural analyses and built structural models of the NrfD-like subunits. We observed that all these subunits are constituted by two structural repeats composed of four-helix bundles, possibly harboring ion-conducting pathways and containing a quinone/quinol binding site. NrfD-like subunits may be the ion-pumping module of several enzymes. Our data impact on the discussion of functional implications of the NrfD-like subunit-containing complexes, namely in their ability to transduce energy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Calisto
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica-António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal.,BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universdade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Manuela M Pereira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica-António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal.,BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universdade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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19
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Duarte AG, Barbosa ACC, Ferreira D, Manteigas G, Domingos RM, Pereira IAC. Redox loops in anaerobic respiration - The role of the widespread NrfD protein family and associated dimeric redox module. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2021; 1862:148416. [PMID: 33753023 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2021.148416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In prokaryotes, the proton or sodium motive force required for ATP synthesis is produced by respiratory complexes that present an ion-pumping mechanism or are involved in redox loops performed by membrane proteins that usually have substrate and quinone-binding sites on opposite sides of the membrane. Some respiratory complexes include a dimeric redox module composed of a quinone-interacting membrane protein of the NrfD family and an iron‑sulfur protein of the NrfC family. The QrcABCD complex of sulfate reducers, which includes the QrcCD module homologous to NrfCD, was recently shown to perform electrogenic quinone reduction providing the first conclusive evidence for energy conservation among this family. Similar redox modules are present in multiple respiratory complexes, which can be associated with electroneutral, energy-driven or electrogenic reactions. This work discusses the presence of the NrfCD/PsrBC dimeric redox module in different bioenergetics contexts and its role in prokaryotic energy conservation mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Américo G Duarte
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier/Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, Estação Agronómica Nacional, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal.
| | - Ana C C Barbosa
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier/Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, Estação Agronómica Nacional, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Delfim Ferreira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier/Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, Estação Agronómica Nacional, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo Manteigas
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier/Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, Estação Agronómica Nacional, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Renato M Domingos
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier/Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, Estação Agronómica Nacional, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Inês A C Pereira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier/Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, Estação Agronómica Nacional, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal.
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20
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Calisto F, Sousa FM, Sena FV, Refojo PN, Pereira MM. Mechanisms of Energy Transduction by Charge Translocating Membrane Proteins. Chem Rev 2021; 121:1804-1844. [PMID: 33398986 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Life relies on the constant exchange of different forms of energy, i.e., on energy transduction. Therefore, organisms have evolved in a way to be able to harvest the energy made available by external sources (such as light or chemical compounds) and convert these into biological useable energy forms, such as the transmembrane difference of electrochemical potential (Δμ̃). Membrane proteins contribute to the establishment of Δμ̃ by coupling exergonic catalytic reactions to the translocation of charges (electrons/ions) across the membrane. Irrespectively of the energy source and consequent type of reaction, all charge-translocating proteins follow two molecular coupling mechanisms: direct- or indirect-coupling, depending on whether the translocated charge is involved in the driving reaction. In this review, we explore these two coupling mechanisms by thoroughly examining the different types of charge-translocating membrane proteins. For each protein, we analyze the respective reaction thermodynamics, electron transfer/catalytic processes, charge-translocating pathways, and ion/substrate stoichiometries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Calisto
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica-António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República EAN, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal.,BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Filipe M Sousa
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica-António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República EAN, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal.,BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Filipa V Sena
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica-António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República EAN, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal.,BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Patricia N Refojo
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica-António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República EAN, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Manuela M Pereira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica-António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República EAN, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal.,BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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21
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Sulfite oxidation by the quinone-reducing molybdenum sulfite dehydrogenase SoeABC from the bacterium Aquifex aeolicus. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2020; 1861:148279. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2020.148279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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22
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Wang P, Li LZ, Qin YL, Liang ZL, Li XT, Yin HQ, Liu LJ, Liu SJ, Jiang CY. Comparative Genomic Analysis Reveals the Metabolism and Evolution of the Thermophilic Archaeal Genus Metallosphaera. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1192. [PMID: 32655516 PMCID: PMC7325606 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Members of the genus Metallosphaera are widely found in sulfur-rich and metal-laden environments, but their physiological and ecological roles remain poorly understood. Here, we sequenced Metallosphaera tengchongensis Ric-A, a strain isolated from the Tengchong hot spring in Yunnan Province, China, and performed a comparative genome analysis with other Metallosphaera genomes. The genome of M. tengchongensis had an average nucleotide identity (ANI) of approximately 70% to that of Metallosphaera cuprina. Genes sqr, tth, sir, tqo, hdr, tst, soe, and sdo associated with sulfur oxidation, and gene clusters fox and cbs involved in iron oxidation existed in all Metallosphaera genomes. However, the adenosine-5'-phosphosulfate (APS) pathway was only detected in Metallosphaera sedula and Metallosphaera yellowstonensis, and several subunits of fox cluster were lost in M. cuprina. The complete 3-hydroxypropionate/4-hydroxybutyrate cycle and dicarboxylate/4-hydroxybutyrate cycle involved in carbon fixation were found in all Metallosphaera genomes. A large number of gene family gain events occurred in M. yellowstonensis and M. sedula, whereas gene family loss events occurred frequently in M. cuprina. Pervasive strong purifying selection was found acting on the gene families of Metallosphaera, of which transcription-related genes underwent the strongest purifying selection. In contrast, genes related to prophages, transposons, and defense mechanisms were under weaker purifying pressure. Taken together, this study expands knowledge of the genomic traits of Metallosphaera species and sheds light on their evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Zhi Li
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Biometallurgy of Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ya Ling Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zong Lin Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiu Tong Li
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Biometallurgy of Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hua Qun Yin
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Biometallurgy of Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Li Jun Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shuang-Jiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng-Ying Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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23
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Draft Genome Sequence of Acidianus ambivalens DSM 3772, an Aerobic Thermoacidophilic Sulfur Disproportionator. Microbiol Resour Announc 2020; 9:9/3/e01415-19. [PMID: 31948968 PMCID: PMC6965586 DOI: 10.1128/mra.01415-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we describe the genome sequence of Acidianus ambivalens DSM 3772, an archaeon belonging to the Sulfolobales order that was first isolated from continental solfataric fields. This thermoacidophile was sequenced because it utilizes a unique sulfur disproportionation pathway that enables this metabolism under aerobic conditions, in contrast to obligately anaerobic bacterial sulfur disproportionators. Here, we describe the genome sequence of Acidianus ambivalens DSM 3772, an archaeon belonging to the Sulfolobales order that was first isolated from continental solfataric fields. This thermoacidophile was sequenced because it utilizes a unique sulfur disproportionation pathway that enables this metabolism under aerobic conditions, in contrast to obligately anaerobic bacterial sulfur disproportionators.
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24
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Bacterial Intracellular Sulphur Globules. BACTERIAL ORGANELLES AND ORGANELLE-LIKE INCLUSIONS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-60173-7_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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25
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Colman DR, Lindsay MR, Amenabar MJ, Boyd ES. The Intersection of Geology, Geochemistry, and Microbiology in Continental Hydrothermal Systems. ASTROBIOLOGY 2019; 19:1505-1522. [PMID: 31592688 DOI: 10.1089/ast.2018.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Decompressional boiling of ascending hydrothermal waters and separation into a vapor (gas) and a liquid phase drive extensive variation in the geochemical composition of hot spring waters. Yet little is known of how the process of phase separation influences the distribution of microbial metabolisms in springs. Here, we determined the variation in protein coding genes in 51 metagenomes from chemosynthetic hot spring communities that span geochemical gradients in Yellowstone National Park. The 51 metagenomes could be divided into 5 distinct groups that correspond to low and high temperatures and acidic and circumneutral/alkaline springs. A fifth group primarily comprised metagenomes from springs with moderate acidity and that are influenced by elevated volcanic gas input. Protein homologs putatively involved in the oxidation of sulfur compounds, a process that leads to acidification of spring waters, in addition to those involved in the reduction of sulfur compounds were enriched in metagenomes from acidic springs sourced by vapor phase gases. Metagenomes from springs with evidence for elevated volcanic gas input were enriched in protein homologs putatively involved in oxidation of those gases, including hydrogen and methane. Finally, metagenomes from circumneutral/alkaline springs sourced by liquid phase waters were enriched in protein homologs putatively involved in heterotrophy and respiration of oxidized nitrogen compounds and oxygen. These results indicate that the geological process of phase separation shapes the ecology of thermophilic communities through its influence on the availability of nutrients in the form of gases, solutes, and minerals. Microbial acidification of hot spring waters further influences the kinetic and thermodynamic stabilities of nutrients and their bioavailability. These data therefore provide an important framework to understand how geological processes have shaped the evolutionary history of chemosynthetic thermophiles and how these organisms, in turn, have shaped their geochemical environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Colman
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
| | - Melody R Lindsay
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
| | | | - Eric S Boyd
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
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26
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Li W, Ni J, Cai S, Liu Y, Shen C, Yang H, Chen Y, Tao J, Yu Y, Liu Q. Variations in microbial community structure and functional gene expression in bio-treatment processes with odorous pollutants. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17870. [PMID: 31780738 PMCID: PMC6883040 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54281-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Engineered microbial ecosystems in biofilters have been widely applied to treat odorous gases from industrial emissions. Variations in microbial community structure and function associated with the removal of odorous gases by biofilters are largely unknown. This study performed a metagenomic analysis to discover shifts in microbial community structures in a commercial scale biofilter after treating odorous gas. Our study identified 175,675 functional genes assigned into 43 functional KEGG pathways. Based on the unigene sequences, there were significant changes in microbial community structures in the biofilter after treating odorous gas. The dominant genera were Thiobacillus and Oceanicaulis before the treatment, and were Acidithiobacillus and Ferroplasma after the treatment. A clustering analysis showed that the number of down-regulated microbes exceeded the number of up-regulated microbes, suggesting that odorous gas treatment reduced in microbial community structures. A differential expression analysis identified 29,975 up- and 452,599 down-regulated genes. An enrichment analysis showed 17 classic types of xenobiotic biodegradation pathways. The results identified 16 and 15 genes involved in ammonia and sulfite metabolism, respectively; an analysis of their relative abundance identified several up-regulated genes, which may be efficient genes involved in removing odorous gases. The data provided in this study demonstrate the changes in microbial communities and help identify the dominant microflora and genes that play key roles in treating odorous gases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidong Li
- College of Qianjiang, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianguo Ni
- Hangzhou Ecological Environment Bureau of Xiaoshan Branch, Hangzhou, 311201, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoqin Cai
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Liu
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenjia Shen
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Huayun Yang
- College of Qianjiang, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuquan Chen
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Tao
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunfeng Yu
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Liu
- College of Qianjiang, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China. .,College of Life and Environmental Science, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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27
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Zeldes BM, Loder AJ, Counts JA, Haque M, Widney KA, Keller LM, Albers S, Kelly RM. Determinants of sulphur chemolithoautotrophy in the extremely thermoacidophilicSulfolobales. Environ Microbiol 2019; 21:3696-3710. [DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.14712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M. Zeldes
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NC 27695‐7905 USA
| | - Andrew J. Loder
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NC 27695‐7905 USA
| | - James A. Counts
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NC 27695‐7905 USA
| | - Mashkurul Haque
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NC 27695‐7905 USA
| | - Karl A. Widney
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NC 27695‐7905 USA
| | - Lisa M. Keller
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NC 27695‐7905 USA
| | - Sonja‐Verena Albers
- Institute of Biology II – MicrobiologyUniversity of Freiburg Freiburg Germany
| | - Robert M. Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NC 27695‐7905 USA
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28
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Miralles-Robledillo JM, Torregrosa-Crespo J, Martínez-Espinosa RM, Pire C. DMSO Reductase Family: Phylogenetics and Applications of Extremophiles. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E3349. [PMID: 31288391 PMCID: PMC6650914 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20133349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dimethyl sulfoxide reductases (DMSO) are molybdoenzymes widespread in all domains of life. They catalyse not only redox reactions, but also hydroxylation/hydration and oxygen transfer processes. Although literature on DMSO is abundant, the biological significance of these enzymes in anaerobic respiration and the molecular mechanisms beyond the expression of genes coding for them are still scarce. In this review, a deep revision of the literature reported on DMSO as well as the use of bioinformatics tools and free software has been developed in order to highlight the relevance of DMSO reductases on anaerobic processes connected to different biogeochemical cycles. Special emphasis has been addressed to DMSO from extremophilic organisms and their role in nitrogen cycle. Besides, an updated overview of phylogeny of DMSOs as well as potential applications of some DMSO reductases on bioremediation approaches are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose María Miralles-Robledillo
- Departamento de Agroquímica y Bioquímica, División de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, Carretera San Vicente del Raspeig s/n-03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
| | - Javier Torregrosa-Crespo
- Departamento de Agroquímica y Bioquímica, División de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, Carretera San Vicente del Raspeig s/n-03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
| | - Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa
- Departamento de Agroquímica y Bioquímica, División de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, Carretera San Vicente del Raspeig s/n-03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
| | - Carmen Pire
- Departamento de Agroquímica y Bioquímica, División de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, Carretera San Vicente del Raspeig s/n-03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain.
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29
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Uncultured Microbial Phyla Suggest Mechanisms for Multi-Thousand-Year Subsistence in Baltic Sea Sediments. mBio 2019; 10:mBio.02376-18. [PMID: 30992358 PMCID: PMC6469976 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02376-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Much of life on Earth exists in a very slow-growing state, with microbes from deeply buried marine sediments representing an extreme example. These environments are like natural laboratories that have run multi-thousand-year experiments that are impossible to perform in a laboratory. We borrowed some techniques that are commonly used in laboratory experiments and applied them to these natural samples to make hypotheses about how these microbes subsist for so long at low activity. We found that some methods for stabilizing proteins and nucleic acids might be used by many members of the community. We also found evidence for niche differentiation strategies, and possibly cross-feeding, suggesting that even though they are barely growing, complex ecological interactions continue to occur over ultralong timescales. Energy-starved microbes in deep marine sediments subsist at near-zero growth for thousands of years, yet the mechanisms for their subsistence are unknown because no model strains have been cultivated from most of these groups. We investigated Baltic Sea sediments with single-cell genomics, metabolomics, metatranscriptomics, and enzyme assays to identify possible subsistence mechanisms employed by uncultured Atribacteria, Aminicenantes, Actinobacteria group OPB41, Aerophobetes, Chloroflexi, Deltaproteobacteria, Desulfatiglans, Bathyarchaeota, and Euryarchaeota marine group II lineages. Some functions appeared to be shared by multiple lineages, such as trehalose production and NAD+-consuming deacetylation, both of which have been shown to increase cellular life spans in other organisms by stabilizing proteins and nucleic acids, respectively. Other possible subsistence mechanisms differed between lineages, possibly providing them different physiological niches. Enzyme assays and transcripts suggested that Atribacteria and Actinobacteria group OPB41 catabolized sugars, whereas Aminicenantes and Atribacteria catabolized peptides. Metabolite and transcript data suggested that Atribacteria utilized allantoin, possibly as an energetic substrate or chemical protectant, and also possessed energy-efficient sodium pumps. Atribacteria single-cell amplified genomes (SAGs) recruited transcripts for full pathways for the production of all 20 canonical amino acids, and the gene for amino acid exporter YddG was one of their most highly transcribed genes, suggesting that they may benefit from metabolic interdependence with other cells. Subsistence of uncultured phyla in deep subsurface sediments may occur through shared strategies of using chemical protectants for biomolecular stabilization, but also by differentiating into physiological niches and metabolic interdependencies.
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30
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Watanabe T, Kojima H, Umezawa K, Hori C, Takasuka TE, Kato Y, Fukui M. Genomes of Neutrophilic Sulfur-Oxidizing Chemolithoautotrophs Representing 9 Proteobacterial Species From 8 Genera. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:316. [PMID: 30858836 PMCID: PMC6397845 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.00316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Even in the current era of metagenomics, the interpretation of nucleotide sequence data is primarily dependent on knowledge obtained from a limited number of microbes isolated in pure culture. Thus, it is of fundamental importance to expand the variety of strains available in pure culture, to make reliable connections between physiological characteristics and genomic information. In this study, two sulfur oxidizers that potentially represent two novel species were isolated and characterized. They were subjected to whole-genome sequencing together with 7 neutrophilic and chemolithoautotrophic sulfur-oxidizing bacteria. The genes for sulfur oxidation in the obtained genomes were identified and compared with those of isolated sulfur oxidizers in the classes Betaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria. Although the combinations of these genes in the respective genomes are diverse, typical combinations corresponding to three types of core sulfur oxidation pathways were identified. Each pathway involves one of three specific sets of proteins, SoxCD, DsrABEFHCMKJOP, and HdrCBAHypHdrCB. All three core pathways contain the SoxXYZAB proteins, and a cytoplasmic sulfite oxidase encoded by soeABC is a conserved component in the core pathways lacking SoxCD. Phylogenetically close organisms share same core sulfur oxidation pathway, but a notable exception was observed in the family ‘Sulfuricellaceae’. In this family, some strains have either core pathway involving DsrABEFHCMKJOP or HdrCBAHypHdrCB, while others have both pathways. A proteomics analysis showed that proteins constituting the core pathways were produced at high levels. While hypothesized function of HdrCBAHypHdrCB is similar to that of Dsr system, both sets of proteins were detected with high relative abundances in the proteome of a strain possessing genes for these proteins. In addition to the genes for sulfur oxidation, those for arsenic metabolism were searched for in the sequenced genomes. As a result, two strains belonging to the families Thiobacillaceae and Sterolibacteriaceae were observed to harbor genes encoding ArxAB, a type of arsenite oxidase that has been identified in a limited number of bacteria. These findings were made with the newly obtained genomes, including those from 6 genera from which no genome sequence of an isolated organism was previously available. These genomes will serve as valuable references to interpret nucleotide sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Watanabe
- Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.,Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Hisaya Kojima
- Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Umezawa
- Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Chiaki Hori
- Research Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Taichi E Takasuka
- Research Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yukako Kato
- Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Manabu Fukui
- Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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31
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A review of the mechanisms of mineral-based metabolism in early Earth analog rock-hosted hydrothermal ecosystems. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 35:29. [PMID: 30689069 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-019-2604-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Prior to the advent of oxygenic photosynthesis ~ 2.8-3.2 Ga, life was dependent on chemical energy captured from oxidation-reduction reactions involving minerals or substrates generated through interaction of water with minerals. Terrestrial hydrothermal environments host abundant and diverse non-photosynthetic communities and a variety of minerals that can sustain microbial metabolism. Minerals and substrates generated through interaction of minerals with water are differentially distributed in hot spring environments which, in turn, shapes the distribution of microbial life and the metabolic processes that support it. Emerging evidence suggests that terrestrial hydrothermal environments may have played a role in supporting the metabolism of the earliest forms of microbial life. It follows that these environments and their microbial inhabitants are increasingly being studied as analogs of early Earth ecosystems. Here we review current understanding of the processes that lead to variation in the availability of minerals or mineral-sourced substrates in terrestrial hydrothermal environments. In addition, we summarize proposed mechanisms of mineral substrate acquisition and metabolism in microbial cells inhabiting terrestrial hydrothermal environments, highlighting the importance of the dynamic interplay between biotic and abiotic reactions in influencing mineral substrate bioavailability. An emphasis is placed on mechanisms involved in the solubilization, acquisition, and metabolism of sulfur- and iron-bearing minerals, since these elements were likely integrated into the metabolism of the earliest anaerobic cells.
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32
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Duarte AG, Catarino T, White GF, Lousa D, Neukirchen S, Soares CM, Sousa FL, Clarke TA, Pereira IAC. An electrogenic redox loop in sulfate reduction reveals a likely widespread mechanism of energy conservation. Nat Commun 2018; 9:5448. [PMID: 30575735 PMCID: PMC6303296 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07839-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The bioenergetics of anaerobic metabolism frequently relies on redox loops performed by membrane complexes with substrate- and quinone-binding sites on opposite sides of the membrane. However, in sulfate respiration (a key process in the biogeochemical sulfur cycle), the substrate- and quinone-binding sites of the QrcABCD complex are periplasmic, and their role in energy conservation has not been elucidated. Here we show that the QrcABCD complex of Desulfovibrio vulgaris is electrogenic, as protons and electrons required for quinone reduction are extracted from opposite sides of the membrane, with a H+/e− ratio of 1. Although the complex does not act as a H+-pump, QrcD may include a conserved proton channel leading from the N-side to the P-side menaquinone pocket. Our work provides evidence of how energy is conserved during dissimilatory sulfate reduction, and suggests mechanisms behind the functions of related bacterial respiratory complexes in other bioenergetic contexts. The bacterial complex QrcABCD plays a key role in the bioenergetics of sulfate respiration. Here, Duarte et al. show that this complex is electrogenic, with protons and electrons required for quinone reduction being extracted from opposite sides of the membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Américo G Duarte
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Teresa Catarino
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal.,Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Gaye F White
- Centre for Molecular and Structural Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences and School of Chemistry, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Diana Lousa
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Sinje Neukirchen
- Division of Archaea Biology and Ecogenomics, Department of Ecogenomics and Systems Biology, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14 UZA I, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Cláudio M Soares
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Filipa L Sousa
- Division of Archaea Biology and Ecogenomics, Department of Ecogenomics and Systems Biology, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14 UZA I, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas A Clarke
- Centre for Molecular and Structural Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences and School of Chemistry, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Inês A C Pereira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal.
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33
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Straub CT, Counts JA, Nguyen DMN, Wu CH, Zeldes BM, Crosby JR, Conway JM, Otten JK, Lipscomb GL, Schut GJ, Adams MWW, Kelly RM. Biotechnology of extremely thermophilic archaea. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2018; 42:543-578. [PMID: 29945179 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuy012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the extremely thermophilic archaea (Topt ≥ 70°C) may be the most primitive extant forms of life, they have been studied to a limited extent relative to mesophilic microorganisms. Many of these organisms have unique biochemical and physiological characteristics with important biotechnological implications. These include methanogens that generate methane, fermentative anaerobes that produce hydrogen gas with high efficiency, and acidophiles that can mobilize base, precious and strategic metals from mineral ores. Extremely thermophilic archaea have also been a valuable source of thermoactive, thermostable biocatalysts, but their use as cellular systems has been limited because of the general lack of facile genetics tools. This situation has changed recently, however, thereby providing an important avenue for understanding their metabolic and physiological details and also opening up opportunities for metabolic engineering efforts. Along these lines, extremely thermophilic archaea have recently been engineered to produce a variety of alcohols and industrial chemicals, in some cases incorporating CO2 into the final product. There are barriers and challenges to these organisms reaching their full potential as industrial microorganisms but, if these can be overcome, a new dimension for biotechnology will be forthcoming that strategically exploits biology at high temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher T Straub
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - James A Counts
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Diep M N Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Chang-Hao Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Benjamin M Zeldes
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - James R Crosby
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Jonathan M Conway
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Jonathan K Otten
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Gina L Lipscomb
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Gerrit J Schut
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Michael W W Adams
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Robert M Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
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Florentino AP, Pereira IAC, Boeren S, van den Born M, Stams AJM, Sánchez-Andrea I. Insight into the sulfur metabolism of Desulfurella amilsii by differential proteomics. Environ Microbiol 2018; 21:209-225. [PMID: 30307104 PMCID: PMC6378623 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.14442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Many questions regarding proteins involved in microbial sulfur metabolism remain unsolved. For sulfur respiration at low pH, the terminal electron acceptor is still unclear. Desulfurella amilsii is a sulfur-reducing bacterium that respires elemental sulfur (S0 ) or thiosulfate, and grows by S0 disproportionation. Due to its versatility, comparative studies on D. amilsii may shed light on microbial sulfur metabolism. Requirement of physical contact between cells and S0 was analyzed. Sulfide production decreased by around 50% when S0 was trapped in dialysis membranes, suggesting that contact between cells and S0 is beneficial, but not strictly needed. Proteome analysis was performed under the aforementioned conditions. A Mo-oxidoreductase suggested from genome analysis to act as sulfur reductase was not detected in any growth condition. Thiosulfate and sulfite reductases showed increased abundance in thiosulfate-reducing cultures, while rhodanese-like sulfurtransferases were highly abundant in all conditions. DsrE and DsrL were abundantly detected during thiosulfate reduction, suggesting a modified mechanism of sulfite reduction. Proteogenomics suggest a different disproportionation pathway from what has been reported. This work points to an important role of rhodaneses in sulfur processes and these proteins should be considered in searches for sulfur metabolism in broader fields like meta-omics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna P Florentino
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Inês A C Pereira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Quimica e Biologica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da Republica-EAN, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Sjef Boeren
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Wageningen University, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Michael van den Born
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alfons J M Stams
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands.,CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - Irene Sánchez-Andrea
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Lindsay MR, Amenabar MJ, Fecteau KM, Debes RV, Fernandes Martins MC, Fristad KE, Xu H, Hoehler TM, Shock EL, Boyd ES. Subsurface processes influence oxidant availability and chemoautotrophic hydrogen metabolism in Yellowstone hot springs. GEOBIOLOGY 2018; 16:674-692. [PMID: 30035368 DOI: 10.1111/gbi.12308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The geochemistry of hot springs and the availability of oxidants capable of supporting microbial metabolisms are influenced by subsurface processes including the separation of hydrothermal fluids into vapor and liquid phases. Here, we characterized the influence of geochemical variation and oxidant availability on the abundance, composition, and activity of hydrogen (H2 )-dependent chemoautotrophs along the outflow channels of two-paired hot springs in Yellowstone National Park. The hydrothermal fluid at Roadside East (RSE; 82.4°C, pH 3.0) is acidic due to vapor-phase input while the fluid at Roadside West (RSW; 68.1°C, pH 7.0) is circumneutral due to liquid-phase input. Most chemotrophic communities exhibited net rates of H2 oxidation, consistent with H2 support of primary productivity, with one chemotrophic community exhibiting a net rate of H2 production. Abundant H2 -oxidizing chemoautotrophs were supported by reduction in oxygen, elemental sulfur, sulfate, and nitrate in RSW and oxygen and ferric iron in RSE; O2 utilizing hydrogenotrophs increased in abundance down both outflow channels. Sequencing of 16S rRNA transcripts or genes from native sediments and dilution series incubations, respectively, suggests that members of the archaeal orders Sulfolobales, Desulfurococcales, and Thermoproteales are likely responsible for H2 oxidation in RSE, whereas members of the bacterial order Thermoflexales and the archaeal order Thermoproteales are likely responsible for H2 oxidation in RSW. These observations suggest that subsurface processes strongly influence spring chemistry and oxidant availability, which in turn select for unique assemblages of H2 oxidizing microorganisms. Therefore, these data point to the role of oxidant availability in shaping the ecology and evolution of hydrogenotrophic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody R Lindsay
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
| | | | - Kristopher M Fecteau
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona
- School of Earth and Space Exploration, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona
| | - Randal V Debes
- School of Earth and Space Exploration, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona
| | | | | | - Huifang Xu
- Department of Geosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
- NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, California
| | - Tori M Hoehler
- NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, California
- NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, California
| | - Everett L Shock
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona
- School of Earth and Space Exploration, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona
- NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, California
| | - Eric S Boyd
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
- NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, California
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Amenabar MJ, Colman DR, Poudel S, Roden EE, Boyd ES. Electron acceptor availability alters carbon and energy metabolism in a thermoacidophile. Environ Microbiol 2018; 20:2523-2537. [PMID: 29749696 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.14270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The thermoacidophilic Acidianus strain DS80 displays versatility in its energy metabolism and can grow autotrophically and heterotrophically with elemental sulfur (S°), ferric iron (Fe3+ ) or oxygen (O2 ) as electron acceptors. Here, we show that autotrophic and heterotrophic growth with S° as the electron acceptor is obligately dependent on hydrogen (H2 ) as electron donor; organic substrates such as acetate can only serve as a carbon source. In contrast, organic substrates such as acetate can serve as electron donor and carbon source for Fe3+ or O2 grown cells. During growth on S° or Fe3+ with H2 as an electron donor, the amount of CO2 assimilated into biomass decreased when cultures were provided with acetate. The addition of CO2 to cultures decreased the amount of acetate mineralized and assimilated and increased cell production in H2 /Fe3+ grown cells but had no effect on H2 /S° grown cells. In acetate/Fe3+ grown cells, the presence of H2 decreased the amount of acetate mineralized as CO2 in cultures compared to those without H2 . These results indicate that electron acceptor availability constrains the variety of carbon sources used by this strain. Addition of H2 to cultures overcomes this limitation and alters heterotrophic metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel R Colman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Saroj Poudel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Eric E Roden
- Department of Geosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.,NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, CA, USA
| | - Eric S Boyd
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA.,NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, CA, USA
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37
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Jelen B, Giovannelli D, Falkowski PG, Vetriani C. Elemental sulfur reduction in the deep‐sea vent thermophile,
Thermovibrio ammonificans. Environ Microbiol 2018; 20:2301-2316. [DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.14280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Jelen
- Environmental Biophysics and Molecular Ecology Program Rutgers University, New Brunswick New Brunswick NJ 08901 USA
| | - Donato Giovannelli
- Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences Rutgers University New Brunswick NJ 08901 USA
- Institute of Marine Science National Research Council Ancona 60125 Italy
- Earth‐Life Science Institute Tokyo Institute of Technology Tokyo 152‐8550 Japan
| | - Paul G. Falkowski
- Environmental Biophysics and Molecular Ecology Program Rutgers University, New Brunswick New Brunswick NJ 08901 USA
- Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences Rutgers University New Brunswick NJ 08901 USA
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences Rutgers University New Brunswick NJ 08854 USA
| | - Costantino Vetriani
- Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences Rutgers University New Brunswick NJ 08901 USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology Rutgers University New Brunswick NJ 08901 USA
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Amenabar MJ, Boyd ES. Mechanisms of Mineral Substrate Acquisition in a Thermoacidophile. Appl Environ Microbiol 2018; 84:e00334-18. [PMID: 29625980 PMCID: PMC5981063 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00334-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The thermoacidophile Acidianus is widely distributed in Yellowstone National Park hot springs that span large gradients in pH (1.60 to 4.84), temperature (42 to 90°C), and mineralogical composition. To characterize the potential role of flexibility in mineral-dependent energy metabolism in contributing to the widespread ecological distribution of this organism, we characterized the spectrum of minerals capable of supporting metabolism and the mechanisms that it uses to access these minerals. The energy metabolism of Acidianus strain DS80 was supported by elemental sulfur (S0), a variety of iron (hydr)oxides, and arsenic sulfide. Strain DS80 reduced, oxidized, and disproportionated S0 Cells growing via S0 reduction and disproportionation did not require direct access to the mineral to reduce it, whereas cells growing via S0 oxidation did require direct access, observations that are attributable to the role of H2S produced by S0 reduction/disproportionation in solubilizing and increasing the bioavailability of S0 Cells growing via iron (hydr)oxide reduction did not require access to the mineral, suggesting that the cells reduce Fe(III) that is being leached by the acidic growth medium. Cells growing via oxidation of arsenic sulfide with Fe(III) did not require access to the mineral to grow. The stoichiometry of reactants to products indicates that cells oxidize soluble As(III) released from oxidation of arsenic sulfide by aqueous Fe(III). Taken together, these observations underscore the importance of feedbacks between abiotic and biotic reactions in influencing the bioavailability of mineral substrates and defining ecological niches capable of supporting microbial metabolism.IMPORTANCE Mineral sources of electron donor and acceptor that support microbial metabolism are abundant in the natural environment. However, the spectrum of minerals capable of supporting a given microbial strain and the mechanisms that are used to access these minerals in support of microbial energy metabolism are often unknown, in particular among thermoacidophiles. Here, we show that the thermoacidophile Acidianus strain DS80 is adapted to use a variety of iron (hydro)oxide minerals, elemental sulfur, and arsenic sulfide to support growth. Cells rely on a complex interplay of abiologically and biologically catalyzed reactions that increase the solubility or bioavailability of minerals, thereby enabling their use in microbial metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximiliano J Amenabar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA
| | - Eric S Boyd
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA
- NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, California, USA
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Hausmann B, Pelikan C, Herbold CW, Köstlbacher S, Albertsen M, Eichorst SA, Glavina Del Rio T, Huemer M, Nielsen PH, Rattei T, Stingl U, Tringe SG, Trojan D, Wentrup C, Woebken D, Pester M, Loy A. Peatland Acidobacteria with a dissimilatory sulfur metabolism. THE ISME JOURNAL 2018; 12:1729-1742. [PMID: 29476143 PMCID: PMC6018796 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-018-0077-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Sulfur-cycling microorganisms impact organic matter decomposition in wetlands and consequently greenhouse gas emissions from these globally relevant environments. However, their identities and physiological properties are largely unknown. By applying a functional metagenomics approach to an acidic peatland, we recovered draft genomes of seven novel Acidobacteria species with the potential for dissimilatory sulfite (dsrAB, dsrC, dsrD, dsrN, dsrT, dsrMKJOP) or sulfate respiration (sat, aprBA, qmoABC plus dsr genes). Surprisingly, the genomes also encoded DsrL, which so far was only found in sulfur-oxidizing microorganisms. Metatranscriptome analysis demonstrated expression of acidobacterial sulfur-metabolism genes in native peat soil and their upregulation in diverse anoxic microcosms. This indicated an active sulfate respiration pathway, which, however, might also operate in reverse for dissimilatory sulfur oxidation or disproportionation as proposed for the sulfur-oxidizing Desulfurivibrio alkaliphilus. Acidobacteria that only harbored genes for sulfite reduction additionally encoded enzymes that liberate sulfite from organosulfonates, which suggested organic sulfur compounds as complementary energy sources. Further metabolic potentials included polysaccharide hydrolysis and sugar utilization, aerobic respiration, several fermentative capabilities, and hydrogen oxidation. Our findings extend both, the known physiological and genetic properties of Acidobacteria and the known taxonomic diversity of microorganisms with a DsrAB-based sulfur metabolism, and highlight new fundamental niches for facultative anaerobic Acidobacteria in wetlands based on exploitation of inorganic and organic sulfur molecules for energy conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bela Hausmann
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Claus Pelikan
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Craig W Herbold
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stephan Köstlbacher
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mads Albertsen
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Center for Microbial Communities, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Stephanie A Eichorst
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Martin Huemer
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Per H Nielsen
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Center for Microbial Communities, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Thomas Rattei
- Division of Computational Systems Biology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrich Stingl
- Department for Microbiology and Cell Science, Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, UF/IFAS, University of Florida, Davie, FL, USA
| | - Susannah G Tringe
- US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Walnut Creek, CA, USA
| | - Daniela Trojan
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Cecilia Wentrup
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dagmar Woebken
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Pester
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.
- Leibniz Institute DSMZ, Braunschweig, Germany.
| | - Alexander Loy
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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40
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Amenabar MJ, Shock EL, Roden EE, Peters JW, Boyd ES. Microbial substrate preference dictated by energy demand, not supply. NATURE GEOSCIENCE 2017; 10:577-581. [PMID: 30944580 PMCID: PMC6443248 DOI: 10.1038/ngeo2978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Growth substrates that maximize energy yield are widely thought to be utilized preferentially by microorganisms. However, observed distributions of microorganisms and their activities often deviate from predictions based solely on thermodynamic considerations of substrate energy supply. Here we present observations of the bioenergetics and growth yields of a metabolically flexible, thermophilic strain of the archaeon Acidianus when grown autotrophically on minimal medium with hydrogen (H2) or elemental sulfur (S°) as an electron donor, and S° or ferric iron (Fe3+) as an electron acceptor. Thermodynamic calculations indicate that S°/Fe3+ and H2/Fe3+ yield three- and four-fold more energy per mol electron transferred, respectively, than the H2/S° couple. However, biomass yields in Acidianus cultures provided with H2/S° were eight-fold greater than when provided S°/Fe3+ or H2/Fe3+, indicating the H2/S° redox couple is preferred. Indeed, cells provided with all three growth substrates (H2, Fe3+, and S°) grew preferentially by reduction of S° with H2. We conclude that substrate preference is dictated by differences in the energy demand of electron transfer reactions in Acidianus when grown with different substrates, rather than substrate energy supply.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Everett L. Shock
- School of Earth & Space Exploration and School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona
- NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, California
| | - Eric E. Roden
- Department of Geosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
- NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, California
| | - John W. Peters
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
| | - Eric S. Boyd
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
- NASA Astrobiology Institute, Mountain View, California
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41
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Urbieta MS, Rascovan N, Vázquez MP, Donati E. Genome analysis of the thermoacidophilic archaeon Acidianus copahuensis focusing on the metabolisms associated to biomining activities. BMC Genomics 2017; 18:445. [PMID: 28587624 PMCID: PMC5461723 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-017-3828-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Several archaeal species from the order Sulfolobales are interesting from the biotechnological point of view due to their biomining capacities. Within this group, the genus Acidianus contains four biomining species (from ten known Acidianus species), but none of these have their genome sequenced. To get insights into the genetic potential and metabolic pathways involved in the biomining activity of this group, we sequenced the genome of Acidianus copahuensis ALE1 strain, a novel thermoacidophilic crenarchaeon (optimum growth: 75 °C, pH 3) isolated from the volcanic geothermal area of Copahue at Neuquén province in Argentina. Previous experimental characterization of A. copahuensis revealed a high biomining potential, exhibited as high oxidation activity of sulfur and sulfur compounds, ferrous iron and sulfide minerals (e.g.: pyrite). This strain is also autotrophic and tolerant to heavy metals, thus, it can grow under adverse conditions for most forms of life with a low nutrient demand, conditions that are commonly found in mining environments. Results In this work we analyzed the genome of Acidianus copahuensis and describe the genetic pathways involved in biomining processes. We identified the enzymes that are most likely involved in growth on sulfur and ferrous iron oxidation as well as those involved in autotrophic carbon fixation. We also found that A. copahuensis genome gathers different features that are only present in particular lineages or species from the order Sulfolobales, some of which are involved in biomining. We found that although most of its genes (81%) were found in at least one other Sulfolobales species, it is not specifically closer to any particular species (60–70% of proteins shared with each of them). Although almost one fifth of A. copahuensis proteins are not found in any other Sulfolobales species, most of them corresponded to hypothetical proteins from uncharacterized metabolisms. Conclusion In this work we identified the genes responsible for the biomining metabolisms that we have previously observed experimentally. We provide a landscape of the metabolic potentials of this strain in the context of Sulfolobales and propose various pathways and cellular processes not yet fully understood that can use A. copahuensis as an experimental model to further understand the fascinating biology of thermoacidophilic biomining archaea. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-017-3828-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Sofía Urbieta
- CINDEFI (CCT La Plata-CONICET, UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 47 y 115, 1900, La Plata, Argentina. .,, Calle 50, entre 115 y 116, N° 227, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Nicolás Rascovan
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología de Rosario (INDEAR), CONICET, Predio CCT, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Martín P Vázquez
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología de Rosario (INDEAR), CONICET, Predio CCT, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Edgardo Donati
- CINDEFI (CCT La Plata-CONICET, UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 47 y 115, 1900, La Plata, Argentina
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Florentino AP, Stams AJM, Sánchez-Andrea I. Genome Sequence of Desulfurella amilsii Strain TR1 and Comparative Genomics of Desulfurellaceae Family. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:222. [PMID: 28265263 PMCID: PMC5317093 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The acidotolerant sulfur reducer Desulfurella amilsii was isolated from sediments of Tinto River, an extremely acidic environment. Its ability to grow in a broad range of pH and to tolerate certain heavy metals offers potential for metal recovery processes. Here we report its high-quality draft genome sequence and compare it to the available genome sequences of other members of Desulfurellaceae family: D. acetivorans. D. multipotens, Hippea maritima. H. alviniae, H. medeae, and H. jasoniae. For most species, pairwise comparisons for average nucleotide identity (ANI) and in silico DNA-DNA hybridization (DDH) revealed ANI values from 67.5 to 80% and DDH values from 12.9 to 24.2%. D. acetivorans and D. multipotens, however, surpassed the estimated thresholds of species definition for both DDH (98.6%) and ANI (88.1%). Therefore, they should be merged to a single species. Comparative analysis of Desulfurellaceae genomes revealed different gene content for sulfur respiration between Desulfurella and Hippea species. Sulfur reductase is only encoded in D. amilsii, in which it is suggested to play a role in sulfur respiration, especially at low pH. Polysulfide reductase is only encoded in Hippea species; it is likely that this genus uses polysulfide as electron acceptor. Genes encoding thiosulfate reductase are present in all the genomes, but dissimilatory sulfite reductase is only present in Desulfurella species. Thus, thiosulfate respiration via sulfite is only likely in this genus. Although sulfur disproportionation occurs in Desulfurella species, the molecular mechanism behind this process is not yet understood, hampering a genome prediction. The metabolism of acetate in Desulfurella species can occur via the acetyl-CoA synthetase or via acetate kinase in combination with phosphate acetyltransferase, while in Hippea species, it might occur via the acetate kinase. Large differences in gene sets involved in resistance to acidic conditions were not detected among the genomes. Therefore, the regulation of those genes, or a mechanism not yet known, might be responsible for the unique ability of D. amilsii. This is the first report on comparative genomics of sulfur-reducing bacteria, which is valuable to give insight into this poorly understood metabolism, but of great potential for biotechnological purposes and of environmental significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna P Florentino
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen UniversityWageningen, Netherlands; Sub-department of Environmental Technology, Wageningen UniversityWageningen, Netherlands
| | - Alfons J M Stams
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen UniversityWageningen, Netherlands; Centre of Biological Engineering, University of MinhoBraga, Portugal
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Counts JA, Zeldes BM, Lee LL, Straub CT, Adams MWW, Kelly RM. Physiological, metabolic and biotechnological features of extremely thermophilic microorganisms. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2017; 9. [PMID: 28206708 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The current upper thermal limit for life as we know it is approximately 120°C. Microorganisms that grow optimally at temperatures of 75°C and above are usually referred to as 'extreme thermophiles' and include both bacteria and archaea. For over a century, there has been great scientific curiosity in the basic tenets that support life in thermal biotopes on earth and potentially on other solar bodies. Extreme thermophiles can be aerobes, anaerobes, autotrophs, heterotrophs, or chemolithotrophs, and are found in diverse environments including shallow marine fissures, deep sea hydrothermal vents, terrestrial hot springs-basically, anywhere there is hot water. Initial efforts to study extreme thermophiles faced challenges with their isolation from difficult to access locales, problems with their cultivation in laboratories, and lack of molecular tools. Fortunately, because of their relatively small genomes, many extreme thermophiles were among the first organisms to be sequenced, thereby opening up the application of systems biology-based methods to probe their unique physiological, metabolic and biotechnological features. The bacterial genera Caldicellulosiruptor, Thermotoga and Thermus, and the archaea belonging to the orders Thermococcales and Sulfolobales, are among the most studied extreme thermophiles to date. The recent emergence of genetic tools for many of these organisms provides the opportunity to move beyond basic discovery and manipulation to biotechnologically relevant applications of metabolic engineering. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2017, 9:e1377. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1377 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Counts
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Benjamin M Zeldes
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Laura L Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Christopher T Straub
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Michael W W Adams
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Robert M Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
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44
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Dai X, Wang H, Zhang Z, Li K, Zhang X, Mora-López M, Jiang C, Liu C, Wang L, Zhu Y, Hernández-Ascencio W, Dong Z, Huang L. Genome Sequencing of Sulfolobus sp. A20 from Costa Rica and Comparative Analyses of the Putative Pathways of Carbon, Nitrogen, and Sulfur Metabolism in Various Sulfolobus Strains. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:1902. [PMID: 27965637 PMCID: PMC5127849 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.01902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The genome of Sulfolobus sp. A20 isolated from a hot spring in Costa Rica was sequenced. This circular genome of the strain is 2,688,317 bp in size and 34.8% in G+C content, and contains 2591 open reading frames (ORFs). Strain A20 shares ~95.6% identity at the 16S rRNA gene sequence level and <30% DNA-DNA hybridization (DDH) values with the most closely related known Sulfolobus species (i.e., Sulfolobus islandicus and Sulfolobus solfataricus), suggesting that it represents a novel Sulfolobus species. Comparison of the genome of strain A20 with those of the type strains of S. solfataricus, Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, S. islandicus, and Sulfolobus tokodaii, which were isolated from geographically separated areas, identified 1801 genes conserved among all Sulfolobus species analyzed (core genes). Comparative genome analyses show that central carbon metabolism in Sulfolobus is highly conserved, and enzymes involved in the Entner-Doudoroff pathway, the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the CO2 fixation pathways are predominantly encoded by the core genes. All Sulfolobus species encode genes required for the conversion of ammonium into glutamate/glutamine. Some Sulfolobus strains have gained the ability to utilize additional nitrogen source such as nitrate (i.e., S. islandicus strain REY15A, LAL14/1, M14.25, and M16.27) or urea (i.e., S. islandicus HEV10/4, S. tokodaii strain7, and S. metallicus DSM 6482). The strategies for sulfur metabolism are most diverse and least understood. S. tokodaii encodes sulfur oxygenase/reductase (SOR), whereas both S. islandicus and S. solfataricus contain genes for sulfur reductase (SRE). However, neither SOR nor SRE genes exist in the genome of strain A20, raising the possibility that an unknown pathway for the utilization of elemental sulfur may be present in the strain. The ability of Sulfolobus to utilize nitrate or sulfur is encoded by a gene cluster flanked by IS elements or their remnants. These clusters appear to have become fixed at a specific genomic site in some strains and lost in other strains during the course of evolution. The versatility in nitrogen and sulfur metabolism may represent adaptation of Sulfolobus to thriving in different habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Haina Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Zhenfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, China
| | - Kuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoling Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, China
| | - Marielos Mora-López
- Center for Research in Cell and Molecular Biology, Universidad de Costa Rica San José, Costa Rica
| | - Chengying Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, China
| | - Chang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, China
| | - Yaxin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, China
| | | | - Zhiyang Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, China
| | - Li Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
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Are there multiple mechanisms of anaerobic sulfur oxidation with ferric iron in Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans ? Res Microbiol 2016; 167:357-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Jay ZJ, Beam JP, Kozubal MA, Jennings RD, Rusch DB, Inskeep WP. The distribution, diversity and function of predominant Thermoproteales in high-temperature environments of Yellowstone National Park. Environ Microbiol 2016; 18:4755-4769. [PMID: 27130276 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.13366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
High-temperature environments (> 70°C) contain diverse and abundant members of the crenarchaeal order Thermoproteales. However, a comprehensive study of the distribution and function of diverse members of this group across different habitat types has not been conducted. Consequently, the goals of this study were to determine the distribution of different Thermoproteales genera across geochemically distinct geothermal habitats of Yellowstone National Park, and to identify key functional attributes of major genera that correlate with environmental parameters. Curated sequence assemblies belonging to five genera were characterized in replicate samples of 11 high-temperature communities ranging in pH from 3 to 9. Thermocladium, Vulcanisaeta and Caldivirga spp. were the primary Thermoproteales populations present in low pH (pH < 5) habitats, whereas Thermoproteus populations were found in mildly-acidic (pH 5-6) sulfur sediments, and Pyrobaculum populations were confined to higher pH (pH > 6) sulfur sediments and/or filamentous 'streamer' communities. Metabolic reconstruction and comparative genomics among assemblies show that these populations are primarily chemoorganotrophs that utilize different electron acceptors depending on geochemical conditions. The presence of potential CO2 fixation pathways in some Thermoproteales populations appears to be linked with NiFe hydrogenases, which combined with high levels of H2 in many sulfidic systems, may provide the energy required to fix inorganic C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zackary J Jay
- Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences and Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59175-3120, USA
| | - Jacob P Beam
- Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences and Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59175-3120, USA
| | - Mark A Kozubal
- Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences and Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59175-3120, USA
| | - Ryan deM Jennings
- Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences and Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59175-3120, USA
| | - Douglas B Rusch
- Center for Genomics and Bioinformatics, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - William P Inskeep
- Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences and Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59175-3120, USA
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Florentino AP, Weijma J, Stams AJM, Sánchez-Andrea I. Ecophysiology and Application of Acidophilic Sulfur-Reducing Microorganisms. BIOTECHNOLOGY OF EXTREMOPHILES: 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-13521-2_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
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Melo AMP, Teixeira M. Supramolecular organization of bacterial aerobic respiratory chains: From cells and back. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2015; 1857:190-7. [PMID: 26546715 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2015.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Revised: 10/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Aerobic respiratory chains from all life kingdoms are composed by several complexes that have been deeply characterized in their isolated form. These membranous complexes link the oxidation of reducing substrates to the reduction of molecular oxygen, in a process that conserves energy by ion translocation between both sides of the mitochondrial or prokaryotic cytoplasmatic membranes. In recent years there has been increasing evidence that those complexes are organized as supramolecular structures, the so-called supercomplexes and respirasomes, being available for eukaryotes strong data namely obtained by electron microscopy and single particle analysis. A parallel study has been developed for prokaryotes, based on blue native gels and mass spectrometry analysis, showing that in these more simple unicellular organisms such supercomplexes also exist, involving not only typical aerobic-respiration associated complexes, but also anaerobic-linked enzymes. After a short overview of the data on eukaryotic supercomplexes, we will analyse comprehensively the different types of prokaryotic aerobic respiratory supercomplexes that have been thus far suggested, in both bacteria and archaea. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Organization and dynamics of bioenergetic systems in bacteria, edited by Prof Conrad Mullineaux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M P Melo
- Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade de Lisboa, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Miguel Teixeira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal
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Genomic and metagenomic surveys of hydrogenase distribution indicate H2 is a widely utilised energy source for microbial growth and survival. ISME JOURNAL 2015; 10:761-77. [PMID: 26405831 DOI: 10.1038/ismej.2015.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 365] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2015] [Revised: 06/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Recent physiological and ecological studies have challenged the long-held belief that microbial metabolism of molecular hydrogen (H2) is a niche process. To gain a broader insight into the importance of microbial H2 metabolism, we comprehensively surveyed the genomic and metagenomic distribution of hydrogenases, the reversible enzymes that catalyse the oxidation and evolution of H2. The protein sequences of 3286 non-redundant putative hydrogenases were curated from publicly available databases. These metalloenzymes were classified into multiple groups based on (1) amino acid sequence phylogeny, (2) metal-binding motifs, (3) predicted genetic organisation and (4) reported biochemical characteristics. Four groups (22 subgroups) of [NiFe]-hydrogenase, three groups (6 subtypes) of [FeFe]-hydrogenases and a small group of [Fe]-hydrogenases were identified. We predict that this hydrogenase diversity supports H2-based respiration, fermentation and carbon fixation processes in both oxic and anoxic environments, in addition to various H2-sensing, electron-bifurcation and energy-conversion mechanisms. Hydrogenase-encoding genes were identified in 51 bacterial and archaeal phyla, suggesting strong pressure for both vertical and lateral acquisition. Furthermore, hydrogenase genes could be recovered from diverse terrestrial, aquatic and host-associated metagenomes in varying proportions, indicating a broad ecological distribution and utilisation. Oxygen content (pO2) appears to be a central factor driving the phylum- and ecosystem-level distribution of these genes. In addition to compounding evidence that H2 was the first electron donor for life, our analysis suggests that the great diversification of hydrogenases has enabled H2 metabolism to sustain the growth or survival of microorganisms in a wide range of ecosystems to the present day. This work also provides a comprehensive expanded system for classifying hydrogenases and identifies new prospects for investigating H2 metabolism.
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