Complete Genome Sequence of the Soybean Symbiont Bradyrhizobium japonicum Strain USDA6T

Comparative genomic analysis of Bradyrhizobium strains with natural variability in the efficiency of nitrogen fixation, competitiveness, and adaptation to stressful edaphoclimatic conditions

Bradyrhizobium is known for fixing atmospheric nitrogen in symbiosis with agronomically important crops. This study focused on two groups of strains, each containing eight natural variants of the parental strains, Bradyrhizobium japonicum SEMIA 586 (=CNPSo 17) or Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens SEMIA 566 (=CNPSo 10). CNPSo 17 and CNPSo 10 were used as commercial inoculants for soybean crops in Brazil at the beginning of the crop expansion in the southern region in the 1960s-1970s. Variants derived from these parental strains were obtained in the late 1980s through a strain selection program aimed at identifying elite strains adapted to a new cropping frontier in the central-western Cerrado region, with a higher capacity of biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) and competitiveness. Here, we aimed to detect genetic variations possibly related to BNF, competitiveness for nodule occupancy, and adaptation to the stressful conditions of the Brazilian Cerrado soils. High-quality genome assemblies were produced for all strains. The core genome phylogeny revealed that strains of each group are closely related, as confirmed by high average nucleotide identity values. However, variants accumulated divergences resulting from horizontal gene transfer, genomic rearrangements, and nucleotide polymorphisms. The B. japonicum group presented a larger pangenome and a higher number of nucleotide polymorphisms than the B. diazoefficiens group, possibly due to its longer adaptation time to the Cerrado soil. Interestingly, five strains of the B. japonicum group carry two plasmids. The genetic variability found in both groups is discussed considering the observed differences in their BNF capacity, competitiveness for nodule occupancy, and environmental adaptation.IMPORTANCEToday, Brazil is a global leader in the study and use of biological nitrogen fixation with soybean crops. As Brazilian soils are naturally void of soybean-compatible bradyrhizobia, strain selection programs were established, starting with foreign isolates. Selection searched for adaptation to the local edaphoclimatic conditions, higher efficiency of nitrogen fixation, and strong competitiveness for nodule occupancy. We analyzed the genomes of two parental strains of Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens and eight variant strains derived from each parental strain. We detected two plasmids in five strains and several genetic differences that might be related to adaptation to the stressful conditions of the soils of the Brazilian Cerrado biome. We also detected genetic variations in specific regions that may impact symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Our analysis contributes to new insights into the evolution of Bradyrhizobium, and some of the identified differences may be applied as genetic markers to assist strain selection programs.

CopG1, a Novel Transcriptional Regulator Affecting Symbiosis in Bradyrhizobium sp. SUTN9-2

The symbiotic interaction between leguminous and Bradyrhizobium sp. SUTN9-2 mainly relies on the nodulation process through Nod factors (NFs), while the type IV secretion system (T4SS) acts as an alternative pathway in this symbiosis. Two copies of T4SS (T4SS1 and T4SS2) are located on the chromosome of SUTN9-2. ΔT4SS1 reduces both nodule number and nitrogenase activity in all SUTN9-2 nodulating legumes. The functions of three selected genes (copG1, traG1, and virD21) within the region of T4SS1 were examined. We generated deleted mutants and tested them in Vigna radiata cv. SUT4. ΔtraG1 and ΔvirD21 exhibited lower invasion efficiency at the early stages of root infection but could be recently restored. In contrast, ΔcopG1 completely hindered nodule organogenesis and nitrogenase activity in all tested legumes. ΔcopG1 showed low expression of the nodulation gene and ttsI but exhibited high expression levels of the T4SS genes, traG1 and trbE1. The secreted proteins from ΔT4SS1 were down-regulated compared to the wild-type. Although ΔcopG1 secreted several proteins after flavonoid induction, T3SS (nopP and nopX) and the C4-dicarboxylate transporter (dct) were not detected. These results confirm the crucial role of the copG1 gene as a novel key regulator in the symbiotic relationship between SUTN9-2 and legumes.

The distinct cell physiology of Bradyrhizobium at the population and cellular level

The α-Proteobacteria belonging to Bradyrhizobium genus are microorganisms of extreme slow growth. Despite their extended use as inoculants in soybean production, their physiology remains poorly characterized. In this work, we produced quantitative data on four different isolates: B. diazoefficens USDA110, B. diazoefficiens USDA122, B. japonicum E109 and B. japonicum USDA6 which are representative of specific genomic profiles. Notably, we found conserved physiological traits conserved in all the studied isolates: (i) the lag and initial exponential growth phases display cell aggregation; (ii) the increase in specific nutrient concentration such as yeast extract and gluconate hinders growth; (iii) cell size does not correlate with culture age; and (iv) cell cycle presents polar growth. Meanwhile, fitness, cell size and in vitro growth widely vary across isolates correlating to ribosomal RNA operon number. In summary, this study provides novel empirical data that enriches the comprehension of the Bradyrhizobium (slow) growth dynamics and cell cycle.

Comparative genomics analysis reveals genetic characteristics and nitrogen fixation profile of Bradyrhizobium

Bradyrhizobium is a genus of nitrogen-fixing bacteria, with some species producing nodules in leguminous plants. Investigations into Bradyrhizobium have recently revealed its substantial genetic resources and agricultural benefits, but a comprehensive survey of its genetic diversity and functional properties is lacking. Using a panel of various strains (N = 278), this study performed a comparative genomics analysis to anticipate genes linked with symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Bradyrhizobium's pan-genome consisted of 84,078 gene families, containing 824 core genes and 42,409 accessory genes. Core genes were mainly involved in crucial cell processes, while accessory genes served diverse functions, including nitrogen fixation and nodulation. Three distinct genetic profiles were identified based on the presence/absence of gene clusters related to nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and secretion systems. Most Bradyrhizobium strains from soil and non-leguminous plants lacked major nif/nod genes and were evolutionarily more closely related. These findings shed light on Bradyrhizobium's genetic features for symbiotic nitrogen fixation.

The Type IV Secretion System (T4SS) Mediates Symbiosis between Bradyrhizobium sp. SUTN9-2 and Legumes

There has been little study of the type IV secretion system (T4SS) of bradyrhizobia and its role in legume symbiosis. Therefore, broad host range Bradyrhizobium sp. SUTN9-2 was selected for study. The chromosome of Bradyrhizobium sp. SUTN9-2 contains two copies of the T4SS gene, homologous with the tra/trb operons. A phylogenetic tree of the T4SS gene traG was constructed, which exemplified its horizontal transfer among Bradyrhizobium and Mesorhizobium genera. They also showed similar gene arrangements for the tra/trb operons. However, the virD2 gene was not observed in Mesorhizobium, except M. oppotunistum WSM2075. Interestingly, the orientation of copG, traG, and virD2 cluster was unique to the Bradyrhizobium genus. The phylogenetic tree of copG, traG, and virD2 demonstrated that copies 1 and 2 of these genes were grouped in different clades. In addition, the derived mutant and complementation strains of T4SS were investigated in representative legumes Genistoids, Dalbergioids, and Millettiods. When T4SS copy 1 (T4SS1) was deleted, the nodule number and nitrogenase activity decreased. This supports a positive effect of T4SS1 on symbiosis. In addition, delayed nodulation was observed 7 dpi, which was restored by the complementation of T4SS1. Therefore, T4SS plays an important role in the symbiotic interaction between Bradyrhizobium sp. SUTN9-2 and its leguminous hosts. IMPORTANCE SUTN9-2 is a broad host range strain capable of symbiosis with several legumes. Two copies of T4SS clusters belonging to the tra/trb operon are observed on chromosomes with different gene arrangements. We use phylogenetic tree and gene annotation analysis to predict the evolution of the tra/trb operon of rhizobia. Our finding suggests that the gene encoding the T4SS gene among Bradyrhizobium and Mesorhizobium may have coevolution. In addition, Bradyrhizobium has a uniquely arranged copG, traG, and virD2 gene cluster. The results of T4SS1 gene deletion and complementation revealed its positive effect on nodulation. Therefore, T4SS seems to be another determinant for symbiosis. This is the first report on the role of T4SS in Bradyrhizobium symbiosis.

Synergy between Rhizobial Co-Microsymbionts Leads to an Increase in the Efficiency of Plant-Microbe Interactions

Combined inoculation of legumes with rhizobia and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria or endophytes is a known technique for increasing the efficiency of nitrogen-fixing symbiosis and plant productivity. The aim of this work was to expand knowledge about the synergistic effects between commercial rhizobia of pasture legumes and root nodule bacteria of relict legume species. Pot experiments were performed on common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) and red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) co-inoculated with the participation of the corresponding commercial rhizobial strains (R. leguminosarum bv. viciae RCAM0626 and R. leguminosarum bv. trifolii RCAM1365) and seven strains isolated from nodules of relict legumes inhabiting the Baikal Lake region and the Altai Republic: Oxytropis popoviana, Astragalus chorinensis, O. tragacanthoides and Vicia costata. The inoculation of plants with combinations of strains (commercial strain plus the isolate from relict legume) had a different effect on symbiosis depending on the plant species: the increase in the number of nodules was mainly observed on vetch, whereas increased acetylene reduction activity was evident on clover. It was shown that the relict isolates differ significantly in the set of genes related to different genetic systems that affect plant-microbe interactions. At the same time, they had additional genes that are involved in the formation of symbiosis and determine its effectiveness, but are absent in the used commercial strains: symbiotic genes fix, nif, nod, noe and nol, as well as genes associated with the hormonal status of the plant and the processes of symbiogenesis (acdRS, genes for gibberellins and auxins biosynthesis, genes of T3SS, T4SS and T6SS secretion systems). It can be expected that the accumulation of knowledge about microbial synergy on the example of the joint use of commercial and relict rhizobia will allow in the future the development of methods for the targeted selection of co-microsymbionts to increase the efficiency of agricultural legume-rhizobia systems.

Native Rhizobia Improve Plant Growth, Fix N2, and Reduce Greenhouse Emissions of Sunnhemp More than Commercial Rhizobia Inoculants in Florida Citrus Orchards

Sunnhemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) is an important legume cover crop used in tree cropping systems, where there is increased interest by growers to identify rhizobia to maximize soil nitrogen (N) inputs. We aimed to isolate and identify native rhizobia and compare their capabilities with non-native rhizobia from commercial inoculants to fix atmospheric dinitrogen (N₂), produce and reduce nitrous oxide (N₂O), and improve plant growth. Phylogenetic analyses of sequences of the 16S rRNA and recA, atpD, and glnII genes showed native rhizobial strains belonged to Rhizobium tropici and the non-native strain to Bradyrhizobium japonicum. Plant nodulation tests, sequencing of nodC and nifH genes, and the acetylene-dependent ethylene production assay confirmed the capacity of all strains to nodulate sunnhemp and fix N₂. Inoculation with native rhizobial strains resulted in significant increases in root and shoot weight and total C and N contents in the shoots, and showed greater N₂-fixation rates and lower emissions of N₂O compared to the non-native rhizobium. Our results suggest that native rhizobia improve plant growth, fix N₂, and reduce greenhouse emissions of sunnhemp more than commercial rhizobia inoculants in Florida citrus orchards.

Revealing potential functions of hypothetical proteins induced by genistein in the symbiosis island of Bradyrhizobium japonicum commercial strain SEMIA 5079 (= CPAC 15)

BACKGROUND

Bradyrhizobium japonicum strain SEMIA 5079 (= CPAC 15) is a nitrogen-fixing symbiont of soybean broadly used in commercial inoculants in Brazil. Its genome has about 50% of hypothetical (HP) protein-coding genes, many in the symbiosis island, raising questions about their putative role on the biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) process. This study aimed to infer functional roles to 15 HP genes localized in the symbiosis island of SEMIA 5079, and to analyze their expression in the presence of a nod-gene inducer.

RESULTS

A workflow of bioinformatics tools/databases was established and allowed the functional annotation of the HP genes. Most were enzymes, including transferases in the biosynthetic pathways of cobalamin, amino acids and secondary metabolites that may help in saprophytic ability and stress tolerance, and hydrolases, that may be important for competitiveness, plant infection, and stress tolerance. Putative roles for other enzymes and transporters identified are discussed. Some HP proteins were specific to the genus Bradyrhizobium, others to specific host legumes, and the analysis of orthologues helped to predict roles in BNF.

CONCLUSIONS

All 15 HP genes were induced by genistein and high induction was confirmed in five of them, suggesting major roles in the BNF process.

Genetic variation in symbiotic islands of natural variant strains of soybean Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens differing in competitiveness and in the efficiency of nitrogen fixation

Soybean is the most important legume cropped worldwide and can highly benefit from the biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) process. Brazil is recognized for its leadership in the use of inoculants and two strains, Bradyrhizobium japonicum CPAC 15 (=SEMIA 5079) and Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens CPAC 7 (=SEMIA 5080) compose the majority of the 70 million doses of soybean inoculants commercialized yearly in the country. We studied a collection of natural variants of these two strains, differing in properties of competitiveness and efficiency of BNF. We sequenced the genomes of the parental strain SEMIA 566 of B. japonicum, of three natural variants of this strain (S 204, S 340 and S 370), and compared with another variant of this group, strain CPAC 15. We also sequenced the genome of the parental strain SEMIA 586 of B. diazoefficiens, of three natural variants of this strain (CPAC 390, CPAC 392 and CPAC 394) and compared with the genome of another natural variant, strain CPAC 7. As the main genes responsible for nodulation (nod, noe, nol) and BNF (nif, fix) in soybean Bradyrhizobium are located in symbiotic islands, our objective was to identify genetic variations located in this region, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertions and deletions (indels), that could be potentially related to their different symbiotic phenotypes. We detected 44 genetic variations in the B. japonicum strains and three in B. diazoefficiens. As the B. japonicum strains have gone through a longer period of adaptation to the soil, the higher number of genetic variations could be explained by survival strategies under the harsh environmental conditions of the Brazilian Cerrado biome. Genetic variations were detected in genes enconding proteins such as a dephospho-CoA kinase, related to the CoA biosynthesis; a glucosamine-fructose-6-phosphate aminotransferase, key regulator of the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway; a LysR family transcriptional regulator related to nodulation genes; and NifE and NifS proteins, directly related to the BNF process. We suggest potential genetic variations related to differences in the symbiotic phenotypes.

Evolution of rhizobial symbiosis islands through insertion sequence-mediated deletion and duplication

Symbiosis between organisms influences their evolution via adaptive changes in genome architectures. Immunity of soybean carrying the Rj2 allele is triggered by NopP (type III secretion system [T3SS]-dependent effector), encoded by symbiosis island A (SymA) in B. diazoefficiens USDA122. This immunity was overcome by many mutants with large SymA deletions that encompassed T3SS (rhc) and N2 fixation (nif) genes and were bounded by insertion sequence (IS) copies in direct orientation, indicating homologous recombination between ISs. Similar deletion events were observed in B. diazoefficiens USDA110 and B. japonicum J5. When we cultured a USDA122 strain with a marker gene sacB inserted into the rhc gene cluster, most sucrose-resistant mutants had deletions in nif/rhc gene clusters, similar to the mutants above. Some deletion mutants were unique to the sacB system and showed lower competitive nodulation capability, indicating that IS-mediated deletions occurred during free-living growth and the host plants selected the mutants. Among 63 natural bradyrhizobial isolates, 2 possessed long duplications (261-357 kb) harboring nif/rhc gene clusters between IS copies in direct orientation via homologous recombination. Therefore, the structures of symbiosis islands are in a state of flux via IS-mediated duplications and deletions during rhizobial saprophytic growth, and host plants select mutualistic variants from the resultant pools of rhizobial populations. Our results demonstrate that homologous recombination between direct IS copies provides a natural mechanism generating deletions and duplications on symbiosis islands.

Genomic Diversity of Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp.) Endosymbionts in India and Selection of Potential Strains for Use as Agricultural Inoculants

Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp. ) is a legume crop resilient to climate change due to its tolerance to drought. It is grown by millions of resource-poor farmers in semiarid and tropical subregions of Asia and Africa and is a major contributor to their nutritional food security. Pigeon pea is the sixth most important legume in the world, with India contributing more than 70% of the total production and harbouring a wide variety of cultivars. Nevertheless, the low yield of pigeon pea grown under dry land conditions and its yield instability need to be improved. This may be done by enhancing crop nodulation and, hence, biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) by supplying effective symbiotic rhizobia through the application of "elite" inoculants. Therefore, the main aim in this study was the isolation and genomic analysis of effective rhizobial strains potentially adapted to drought conditions. Accordingly, pigeon pea endosymbionts were isolated from different soil types in Southern, Central, and Northern India. After functional characterisation of the isolated strains in terms of their ability to nodulate and promote the growth of pigeon pea, 19 were selected for full genome sequencing, along with eight commercial inoculant strains obtained from the ICRISAT culture collection. The phylogenomic analysis [Average nucleotide identity MUMmer (ANIm)] revealed that the pigeon pea endosymbionts were members of the genera Bradyrhizobium and Ensifer. Based on nodC phylogeny and nod cluster synteny, Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense was revealed as the most common endosymbiont, harbouring nod genes similar to those of Bradyrhizobium cajani and Bradyrhizobium zhanjiangense. This symbiont type (e.g., strain BRP05 from Madhya Pradesh) also outperformed all other strains tested on pigeon pea, with the notable exception of an Ensifer alkalisoli strain from North India (NBAIM29). The results provide the basis for the development of pigeon pea inoculants to increase the yield of this legume through the use of effective nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, tailored for the different agroclimatic regions of India.

Bradyrhizobium septentrionale sp. nov. (sv. septentrionale) and Bradyrhizobium quebecense sp. nov. (sv. septentrionale) associated with legumes native to Canada possess rearranged symbiosis genes and numerous insertion sequences

Six bacterial strains isolated from root nodules of soybean plants that had been inoculated with root-zone soil of legumes native to Canada were previously characterized and 1) placed in two novel lineages within the genus Bradyrhizobium and 2) assigned to symbiovar septentrionale. Here we verified the taxonomic status of these strains using genomic and phenotypic analyses. Phylogenetic analyses of five protein encoding partial gene sequences as well as 52 full length ribosome protein subunit gene sequences confirmed placement of the novel strains in two highly supported lineages distinct from named Bradyrhizobium species. The highest average nucleotide identity values of strains representing these two lineages relative to type strains of closest relatives were 90.7 and 92.3% which is well below the threshold value for bacterial species circumscription. The genomes of representative strains 1S1^T, 162S2 and 66S1MB^T have sizes of 10598256, 10733150 and 9032145 bp with DNA G+C contents of 63.5, 63.4 and 63.8 mol%, respectively. These strains possess between one and three plasmids based on copy number of plasmid replication and segregation (repABC) genes. Novel strains also possess numerous insertion sequences, and, relative to reference strain Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110^T, exhibit inversion and fragmentation of nodulation (nod) and nitrogen-fixation (nif) gene clusters. Phylogenetic analyses of nodC and nifH gene sequences confirmed placement of novel strains in a distinct lineage corresponding to symbiovar septentrionale. Data for morphological, physiological and symbiotic characteristics complement the sequence-based results. The data presented here support the description of two new species for which the names Bradyrhizobium septentrionale sp. nov. (sv. septentrionale) and Bradyrhizobium quebecense sp. nov. (sv. septentrionale) are proposed, with 1S1^T (=LMG 29930^T=HAMBI 3676^T) and 66S1MB^T (=LMG 31547^T=HAMBI 3720^T) as type strains, respectively.

Evolution and function of nitrogen fixation gene clusters in sugarcane associated Bradyrhizobium strains

Bradyrhizobium spp. are well known to mediate biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) as microsymbionts inhabiting nodules on leguminous plants. However, they may also contribute to plant growth via free-living N₂ fixation (FLNF) in association with non-legumes. Notably, several Bradyrhizobium strains from sugarcane roots display FLNF activity. Among them, Bradyrhizobium sacchari is a legume symbiotic species, whereas strains AG48 and M12 are non-symbiotic. In the present study, a phylogenomic approach was applied to study peculiarities of these and other Bradyrhizobium strains with respect to N fixation (nif) gene content in order to reveal genetic features that enable FNLF in Bradyrhizobium spp. All FLNF strains carry an ancestral 'non-symbiotic' nif-gene cluster (NSC). B. sacchari also contains a second 'symbiotic' nif-gene cluster (SC), a characteristic observed in only three of 156 evaluated genomes. B. sacchari stood out and presented a high level of sequence divergence between individual nif-gene homologues and we discuss scenarios for the evolutionary origin of these clusters. The transcript level of NSC nifH gene increased during FLNF, when compared to symbiotic conditions. The data suggest that sugarcane roots harbor diverse Bradyrhizobium spp. that are genetically adapted to a dynamic environment where leguminous and non-leguminous host plants are alternately available.

The grazing activity of Acrobeloides sp. drives phytate mineralisation within its trophic relationship with bacteria

The microbial loop has been suggested as an alternative route for better utilization of phytate, a poorly available P source to plants. We hypothesized that bacterial grazer activity might dramatically enhance bacterial migration and proliferation, increasing the probability of phytate hydrolysis by bacterial phytases and, thus, phytate mineralization and release of free phosphate. We tested this hypothesis in a two-compartment system with a solid medium containing phytate or free phosphate as the source of P. Two bacterial species, B. subtilis 168 or Bradyrhizobium sp., with or without bacterial grazing nematodes belonging to Acrobeloides sp. previously fed on each of the bacterial species, were inoculated at a single point in the medium. Whatever the P source, nematode migration within both zones allowed the proliferation of bacteria. However, B. subtilis 168 was more efficient in using phytate than Bradyrhizobium sp. since the highest bacterial cell density and free phosphate concentrations were reached by Acrobeloides sp. fed on B. subtilis 168. The grazer activity seemed to be crucial to enhance phytate mineralization, despite Acrobeloides sp. showing a higher preference to feed on Bradyrhizobium sp. This study provides new insights into the effects of bacterial grazer activity on phytate mineralization.

Pangenomics of the Symbiotic Rhizobiales. Core and Accessory Functions Across a Group Endowed with High Levels of Genomic Plasticity

Pangenome analyses reveal major clues on evolutionary instances and critical genome core conservation. The order Rhizobiales encompasses several families with rather disparate ecological attitudes. Among them, Rhizobiaceae, Bradyrhizobiaceae, Phyllobacteriacreae and Xanthobacteriaceae, include members proficient in mutualistic symbioses with plants based on the bacterial conversion of N₂ into ammonia (nitrogen-fixation). The pangenome of 12 nitrogen-fixing plant symbionts of the Rhizobiales was analyzed yielding total 37,364 loci, with a core genome constituting 700 genes. The percentage of core genes averaged 10.2% over single genomes, and between 5% to 7% were found to be plasmid-associated. The comparison between a representative reference genome and the core genome subset, showed the core genome highly enriched in genes for macromolecule metabolism, ribosomal constituents and overall translation machinery, while membrane/periplasm-associated genes, and transport domains resulted under-represented. The analysis of protein functions revealed that between 1.7% and 4.9% of core proteins could putatively have different functions.

Glutaredoxins Play an Important Role in the Redox Homeostasis and Symbiotic Capacity of Azorhizobium caulinodans ORS571

Glutaredoxin (GRX) plays an essential role in the control of the cellular redox state and related pathways in many organisms. There is limited information on GRXs from the model nitrogen (N₂)-fixing bacterium Azorhizobium caulinodans. In the present work, we identified and performed functional analyses of monothiol and dithiol GRXs in A. caulinodans in the free-living state and during symbiosis with Sesbania rostrata. Our data show that monothiol GRXs may be very important for bacterial growth under normal conditions and in response to oxidative stress due to imbalance of the redox state in grx mutants of A. caulinodans. Functional redundancies were also observed within monothiol and dithiol GRXs in terms of different physiological functions. The changes in catalase activity and iron content in grx mutants were assumed to favor the maintenance of bacterial resistance against oxidants, nodulation, and N₂ fixation efficiency in this bacterium. Furthermore, the monothiol GRX12 and dithiol GRX34 play a collective role in symbiotic associations between A. caulinodans and Sesbania rostrata. Our study provided systematic evidence that further investigations are required to understand the importance of glutaredoxins in A. caulinodans and other rhizobia.

Brucella Genomics: Macro and Micro Evolution

Brucella organisms are responsible for one of the most widespread bacterial zoonoses, named brucellosis. The disease affects several species of animals, including humans. One of the most intriguing aspects of the brucellae is that the various species show a ~97% similarity at the genome level. Still, the distinct Brucella species display different host preferences, zoonotic risk, and virulence. After 133 years of research, there are many aspects of the Brucella biology that remain poorly understood, such as host adaptation and virulence mechanisms. A strategy to understand these characteristics focuses on the relationship between the genomic diversity and host preference of the various Brucella species. Pseudogenization, genome reduction, single nucleotide polymorphism variation, number of tandem repeats, and mobile genetic elements are unveiled markers for host adaptation and virulence. Understanding the mechanisms of genome variability in the Brucella genus is relevant to comprehend the emergence of pathogens.

Strains of Bradyrhizobium cosmicum sp. nov., isolated from contrasting habitats in Japan and Canada possess photosynthesis gene clusters with the hallmark of genomic islands

The taxonomic status of two previously characterized Bradyrhizobium strains (58S1T and S23321) isolated from contrasting habitats in Canada and Japan was verified by genomic and phenotypic analyses. Phylogenetic analyses of five and 27 concatenated protein-encoding core gene sequences placed both strains in a highly supported lineage distinct from named species in the genus Bradyrhizobium with Bradyrhizobium betae as the closest relative. Average nucleotide identity values of genome sequences between the test and reference strains were between 84.5 and 94.2 %, which is below the threshold value for bacterial species circumscription. The complete genomes of strains 58S1T and S23321 consist of single chromosomes of 7.30 and 7.23 Mbp, respectively, and do not have symbiosis islands. The genomes of both strains have a G+C content of 64.3 mol%. Present in the genome of these strains is a photosynthesis gene cluster (PGC) containing key photosynthesis genes. A tRNA gene and its partial tandem duplication were found at the boundaries of the PGC region in both strains, which is likely the hallmark of genomic island insertion. Key nitrogen-fixation genes were detected in the genomes of both strains, but nodulation and type III secretion system genes were not found. Sequence analysis of the nitrogen fixation gene, nifH, placed 58S1T and S23321 in a novel lineage distinct from described Bradyrhizobium species. Data for phenotypic tests, including growth characteristics and carbon source utilization, supported the sequence-based analyses. Based on the data presented here, a novel species with the name Bradyrhizobium cosmicum sp. nov. is proposed with 58S1T (=LMG 31545T=HAMBI 3725T) as the type strain.

Levels of Periplasmic Nitrate Reductase during Denitrification are Lower in Bradyrhizobium japonicum than in Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens

Soybean plants host endosymbiotic dinitrogen (N₂)-fixing bacteria from the genus Bradyrhizobium. Under oxygen-limiting conditions, Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens and Bradyrhizobium japonicum perform denitrification by sequentially reducing nitrate (NO₃^–) to nitrous oxide (N₂O) or N₂. The anaerobic reduction of NO₃^– to N₂O was previously shown to be lower in B. japonicum than in B. diazoefficiens due to impaired periplasmic nitrate reductase (Nap) activity in B. japonicum. We herein demonstrated that impaired Nap activity in B. japonicum was due to low Nap protein levels, which may be related to a decline in the production of FixP and FixO proteins by the cbb₃-type oxidase.

Intrinsic role of bacterial secretion systems in phylogenetic niche conservation of Bradyrhizobium spp

Bradyrhizobium is a biologically important bacterial genus. Different Bradyrhizobium strains exhibit distinct niche selection like free living, root nodular and stem nodular. The present in-silico study was undertaken to identify the role of bacterial secretome in the phylogenetic niche conservation (PNC) of Bradyrhizobium sp. Analysis was carried out with the publicly available 19 complete genome assembly and annotation reports. A protocol was developed to screen the secretome related genes using three different database, viz. genome, proteome and gene ortholog. This resulted into 139 orthologs that include type secretion systems (T1SS-T6SS) along with flagella (Flg), type IV pili (T4P) and tight adherence (Tad) systems. Multivariate analysis using bacterial secretome was undertaken to find out the role of these secretion systems in PNC. In free living strains, T3SS, T4SS and T6SS were completely absent. Whereas, in the stem nodulating strains, T3SS and T6SS were absent, but T4SS was found to be present. On the other hand, the T3SS was found to be present only in the root-nodulating strains. The present investigation clearly demonstrated a pattern of PNC based on the distribution of secretion system components. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on PNC of Bradyrhizobium using the multivariate analysis of secretome.

Polyphasic analysis reveals correlation between phenotypic and genotypic analysis in soybean bradyrhizobia (Bradyrhizobium spp.)

Soybean bradyrhizobia (Bradyrhizobium spp.) are bacteria that fix atmospheric nitrogen within the root nodules of soybean, a crop critical for meeting global nutritional protein demand. Members of this group differ in symbiotic effectiveness, and historically both phenotypic and genotypic approaches have been used to assess bradyrhizobial diversity. However, agreement between various approaches of assessment is poorly known. A collection (n=382) of soybean bradyrhizobia (Bradyrhizobium japonicum, B. diazoefficiens, and B. elkanii) were characterized by Internal Transcribed Spacer - Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (ITS-RFLP), cellular fatty acid composition (fatty acid methyl esters, FAME), and serological reactions to assess agreement between phenotypic and genotypic methods. Overall, 76% of the accessions demonstrated identical clustering with each of these techniques. FAME was able to identify all 382 accessions, whereas 14% were non-reactive serologically. One ITS-RFLP group, containing 36 Delaware isolates, produced multiple ITS amplicons indicating they possess multiple ribosomal RNA (rrn) operons. Cloning and sequencing revealed that these strains contained as many as three heterogenous rrn operons, a trait previously unknown in bradyrhizobia. A representative subset of 96 isolates was further characterized using 16S rRNA and Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) amplicon sequencing. ITS sequences showed better inter- and intra-species discrimination (65-99% identity) than 16S sequences (96-99% identity). This study shows that phenotypic and genotypic approaches are strongly correlated at the species level but should be approached with caution. We also suggest using combined 16S and ITS genotyping data to obtain better inter- and intra-species resolution in bradyrhizobia classification.

Lotus Accessions Possess Multiple Checkpoints Triggered by Different Type III Secretion System Effectors of the Wide-Host-Range Symbiont Bradyrhizobium elkanii USDA61

Bradyrhizobium elkanii, a rhizobium with a relatively wide host range, possesses a functional type III secretion system (T3SS) that is involved in symbiotic incompatibility against Rj4-genotype soybean (Glycine max) and some accessions of mung bean (Vigna radiata). To expand our knowledge on the T3SS-mediated partner selection mechanism in the symbiotic legume-rhizobia association, we inoculated three Lotus experimental accessions with wild-type and T3SS-mutant strains of B. elkanii USDA61. Different responses were induced by T3SS in a host genotype-dependent manner. Lotus japonicus Gifu inhibited infection; L. burttii allowed infection, but inhibited nodule maturation at the post-infection stage; and L. burttii and L. japonicus MG-20 both displayed a nodule early senescence-like response. By conducting inoculation tests with mutants of previously reported and newly identified effector protein genes of B. elkanii USDA61, we identified NopF as the effector protein triggering the inhibition of infection, and NopM as the effector protein triggering the nodule early senescence–like response. Consistent with these results, the B. elkanii USDA61 gene for NopF introduced into the Lotus symbiont Mesorhizobium japonicum induced infection inhibition in L. japonicus Gifu, but did not induce any response in L. burttii or L. japonicus MG-20. These results suggest that Lotus accessions possess at least three checkpoints to eliminate unfavorable symbionts, including the post-infection stage, by recognizing different T3SS effector proteins at each checkpoint.

Bradyrhizobium ivorense sp. nov. as a potential local bioinoculant for Cajanus cajan cultures in Côte d'Ivoire

For many smallholder farmers of Sub-Saharan Africa, pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) is an important crop to make ends meet. To ascertain the taxonomic status of pigeonpea isolates of Côte d’Ivoire previously identified as bradyrhizobia, a polyphasic approach was applied to strains CI-1B^T, CI-14A, CI-19D and CI-41S. Phylogeny of 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes placed these nodule isolates in a separate lineage from current species of the B. elkanii super clade. In phylogenetic analyses of single and concatenated partial dnaK, glnII, gyrB, recA and rpoB sequences, the C. cajan isolates again formed a separate lineage, with strain CI-1B^T sharing the highest sequence similarity (95.2 %) with B. tropiciagri SEMIA 6148^T. Comparative genomic analyses corroborated the novel species status, with 86 % ANIb and 89 % ANIm as the highest average nucleotide identity (ANI) values with B. elkanii USDA 76^T. Although CI-1B^T, CI-14A, CI-19D and CI-41S shared similar phenotypic and metabolic properties, growth of CI-41S was slower in/on various media. Symbiotic efficacy varied significantly between isolates, with CI-1B^T and CI-41S scoring on the C. cajan ‘Light-Brown’ landrace as the most and least proficient bacteria, respectively. Also proficient on Vigna radiata (mung bean), Vigna unguiculata (cowpea, niébé) and additional C. cajan cultivars, CI-1B^T represents a potential bioinoculant adapted to local soil conditions and capable of fostering the growth of diverse legume crops in Côte d'Ivoire. Given the data presented here, we propose the 19 C. cajan isolates to belong to a novel species called Bradyrhizobium ivorense sp. nov., with CI-1B^T (=CCOS 1862^T=CCMM B1296^T) as a type strain.

Novel rhizobia exhibit superior nodulation and biological nitrogen fixation even under high nitrate concentrations

Legume-rhizobium symbiosis leads to the formation of nitrogen-fixing root nodules. However, externally applied chemical nitrogen fertilizers (nitrate and ammonia) strongly inhibit nodule formation and nitrogen fixation. Here, we isolated several rhizobial strains exhibiting a superior nodulation and nitrogen fixation with soybean at high nitrate concentrations. The nodulation of soybean symbiont Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110 was significantly inhibited at 12.5 mM nitrate; however, three isolates (NKS4, NKM2 and NKTG2) were capable of forming nitrogen-fixing nodules, even at 20 mM nitrate. These isolates exhibited higher nodulation competitiveness and induced larger nodules with higher nitrogen-fixation activity than USDA110 at 5 mM nitrate. Furthermore, these isolates induced more nodules than USDA110 even in nitrate-free conditions. These isolates had a distant lineage within the Bradyrhizobium genus; though they were relatively phylogenetically close to Bradyrhizobium japonicum, their morphological and growth characteristics were significantly different. Notably, in the presence of nitrate, expression of the soybean symbiosis-related genes (GmENOD40 and GmNIN) was significantly higher and expression of GmNIC1 that is involved in nitrate-dependent nodulation inhibition was lower in the roots inoculated with these isolates in contrast with inoculation of USDA110. These novel rhizobia serve as promising inoculants for soybeans cultivated in diverse agroecosystems, particularly on nitrate-applied soils.

Diversity of Bradyrhizobium in Non-Leguminous Sorghum Plants: B. ottawaense Isolates Unique in Genes for N2O Reductase and Lack of the Type VI Secretion System

Diverse members of Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens, B. japonicum, and B. ottawaense were isolated from the roots of field-grown sorghum plants in Fukushima, and classified into “Rhizobia” with nodulated soybeans, “Free-living diazotrophs”, and “Non-diazotrophs” by nitrogen fixation and nodulation assays. Genome analyses revealed that B. ottawaense members possessed genes for N₂O reduction, but lacked those for the Type VI secretion system (T6SS). T6SS is a new bacterial weapon against microbial competitors. Since T6SS-possessing B. diazoefficiens and B. japonicum have mainly been isolated from soybean nodules in Japan, T6SS-lacking B. ottawaense members may be a cryptic lineage of soybean bradyrhizobia in Japan.

Brazilian-adapted soybean Bradyrhizobium strains uncover IS elements with potential impact on biological nitrogen fixation

Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens CPAC 7 and Bradyrhizobium japonicum CPAC 15 are broadly used in commercial inoculants in Brazil, contributing to most of the nitrogen required by the soybean crop. These strains differ in their symbiotic properties: CPAC 7 is more efficient in fixing nitrogen, whereas CPAC 15 is more competitive. Comparative genomics revealed many transposases close to genes associated with symbiosis in the symbiotic island of these strains. Given the importance that insertion sequences (IS) elements have to bacterial genomes, we focused on identifying the local impact of these elements in the genomes of these and other related Bradyrhizobium strains to further understand their phenotypic differences. Analyses were performed using bioinformatics approaches. We found IS elements disrupting and inserted at regulatory regions of genes involved in symbiosis. Further comparative analyses with 21 Bradyrhizobium genomes revealed insertional polymorphism with distinguishing patterns between B. diazoefficiens and B. japonicum lineages. Finally, 13 of these potentially impacted genes are differentially expressed under symbiotic conditions in B. diazoefficiens USDA 110. Thus, IS elements are associated with the diversity of Bradyrhizobium, possibly by providing mechanisms for natural variation of symbiotic effectiveness.

Identification of Nitrogen-Fixing Bradyrhizobium Associated With Roots of Field-Grown Sorghum by Metagenome and Proteome Analyses

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is cultivated worldwide for food, bioethanol, and fodder production. Although nitrogen fixation in sorghum has been studied since the 1970s, N₂-fixing bacteria have not been widely examined in field-grown sorghum plants because the identification of functional diazotrophs depends on the culture method used. The aim of this study was to identify functional N₂-fixing bacteria associated with field-grown sorghum by using “omics” approaches. Four lines of sorghum (KM1, KM2, KM4, and KM5) were grown in a field in Fukushima, Japan. The nitrogen-fixing activities of the roots, leaves, and stems were evaluated by acetylene reduction and ¹⁵N₂-feeding assays. The highest nitrogen-fixing activities were detected in the roots of lines KM1 and KM2 at the late growth stage. Bacterial cells extracted from KM1 and KM2 roots were analyzed by metagenome, proteome, and isolation approaches and their DNA was isolated and sequenced. Nitrogenase structural gene sequences in the metagenome sequences were retrieved using two nitrogenase databases. Most sequences were assigned to nifHDK of Bradyrhizobium species, including non-nodulating Bradyrhizobium sp. S23321 and photosynthetic B. oligotrophicum S58^T. Amplicon sequence and metagenome analysis revealed a relatively higher abundance (2.9–3.6%) of Bradyrhizobium in the roots. Proteome analysis indicated that three NifHDK proteins of Bradyrhizobium species were consistently detected across sample replicates. By using oligotrophic media, we purified eight bradyrhizobial isolates. Among them, two bradyrhizobial isolates possessed 16S rRNA and nif genes similar to those in S23321 and S58^T which were predicted as functional diazotrophs by omics approaches. Both free-living cells of the isolates expressed N₂-fixing activity in a semi-solid medium according to an acetylene reduction assay. These results suggest that major functional N₂-fixing bacteria in sorghum roots are unique bradyrhizobia that resemble photosynthetic B. oligotrophicum S58^T and non-nodulating Bradyrhizobium sp. S23321. Based on our findings, we discuss the N₂-fixing activity level of sorghum plants, phylogenetic and genomic comparison with diazotrophic bacteria in other crops, and Bradyrhizobium diversity in N₂ fixation and nodulation.

Taxonomically Different Co-Microsymbionts of a Relict Legume, Oxytropis popoviana, Have Complementary Sets of Symbiotic Genes and Together Increase the Efficiency of Plant Nodulation

Ten rhizobial strains were isolated from root nodules of a relict legume Oxytropis popoviana Peschkova. For identification of the isolates, sequencing of rrs, the internal transcribed spacer region, and housekeeping genes recA, glnII, and rpoB was used. Nine fast-growing isolates were Mesorhizobium-related; eight strains were identified as M. japonicum and one isolate belonged to M. kowhaii. The only slow-growing isolate was identified as a Bradyrhizobium sp. Two strains, M. japonicum Opo-242 and Bradyrhizobium sp. strain Opo-243, were isolated from the same nodule. Symbiotic genes of these isolates were searched throughout the whole-genome sequences. The common nodABC genes and other symbiotic genes required for plant nodulation and nitrogen fixation were present in the isolate Opo-242. Strain Opo-243 did not contain the principal nod, nif, and fix genes; however, five genes (nodP, nodQ, nifL, nolK, and noeL) affecting the specificity of plant-rhizobia interactions but absent in isolate Opo-242 were detected. Strain Opo-243 could not induce nodules but significantly accelerated the root nodule formation after coinoculation with isolate Opo-242. Thus, we demonstrated that taxonomically different strains of the archaic symbiotic system can be co-microsymbionts infecting the same nodule and promoting the nodulation process due to complementary sets of symbiotic genes.

Rhizobia: from saprophytes to endosymbionts

Rhizobia are some of the best-studied plant microbiota. These oligotrophic Alphaproteobacteria or Betaproteobacteria form symbioses with their legume hosts. Rhizobia must exist in soil and compete with other members of the microbiota before infecting legumes and forming N₂-fixing bacteroids. These dramatic lifestyle and developmental changes are underpinned by large genomes and even more complex pan-genomes, which encompass the whole population and are subject to rapid genetic exchange. The ability to respond to plant signals and chemoattractants and to colonize nutrient-rich roots are crucial for the competitive success of these bacteria. The availability of a large body of genomic, physiological, biochemical and ecological studies makes rhizobia unique models for investigating community interactions and plant colonization.

The Symbiosome: Legume and Rhizobia Co-evolution toward a Nitrogen-Fixing Organelle?

In legume nodules, symbiosomes containing endosymbiotic rhizobial bacteria act as temporary plant organelles that are responsible for nitrogen fixation, these bacteria develop mutual metabolic dependence with the host legume. In most legumes, the rhizobia infect post-mitotic cells that have lost their ability to divide, although in some nodules cells do maintain their mitotic capacity after infection. Here, we review what is currently known about legume symbiosomes from an evolutionary and developmental perspective, and in the context of the different interactions between diazotroph bacteria and eukaryotes. As a result, it can be concluded that the symbiosome possesses organelle-like characteristics due to its metabolic behavior, the composite origin and differentiation of its membrane, the retargeting of host cell proteins, the control of microsymbiont proliferation and differentiation by the host legume, and the cytoskeletal dynamics and symbiosome segregation during the division of rhizobia-infected cells. Different degrees of symbiosome evolution can be defined, specifically in relation to rhizobial infection and to the different types of nodule. Thus, our current understanding of the symbiosome suggests that it might be considered a nitrogen-fixing link in organelle evolution and that the distinct types of legume symbiosomes could represent different evolutionary stages toward the generation of a nitrogen-fixing organelle.

Draft genome sequences of Bradyrhizobium shewense sp. nov. ERR11T and Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense CCBAU 10071T

The type strain of the prospective 10.1601/nm.30737 sp. nov. ERR11^T, was isolated from a nodule of the leguminous tree Erythrina brucei native to Ethiopia. The type strain 10.1601/nm.1463 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DCCBAU+10071 ^T, was isolated from the nodules of Lespedeza cuneata in Beijing, China. The genomes of ERR11^T and 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DCCBAU+10071 ^T were sequenced by DOE-JGI and deposited at the DOE-JGI genome portal as well as at the European Nucleotide Archive. The genome of ERR11^T is 9,163,226 bp in length and has 102 scaffolds, containing 8548 protein-coding and 86 RNA genes. The 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DCCBAU+10071 ^T genome is arranged in 108 scaffolds and consists of 8,201,522 bp long and 7776 protein-coding and 85 RNA genes. Both genomes contain symbiotic genes, which are homologous to the genes found in the complete genome sequence of 10.1601/nm.24498 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DUSDA+110 ^T. The genes encoding for nodulation and nitrogen fixation in ERR11^T showed high sequence similarity with homologous genes found in the draft genome of peanut-nodulating 10.1601/nm.27386 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DLMG+26795 ^T. The nodulation genes nolYA-nodD2D1YABCSUIJ-nolO-nodZ of ERR11^T and 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DCCBAU+10071 ^T are organized in a similar way to the homologous genes identified in the genomes of 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DUSDA+110 ^T, 10.1601/nm.25806 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DUSDA+4 and 10.1601/nm.1462 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DCCBAU+05525. The genomes harbor hupSLCFHK and hypBFDE genes that code the expression of hydrogenase, an enzyme that helps rhizobia to uptake hydrogen released by the N₂-fixation process and genes encoding denitrification functions napEDABC and norCBQD for nitrate and nitric oxide reduction, respectively. The genome of ERR11^T also contains nosRZDFYLX genes encoding nitrous oxide reductase. Based on multilocus sequence analysis of housekeeping genes, the novel species, which contains eight strains formed a unique group close to the 10.1601/nm.25806 branch. Genome Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) calculated between the genome sequences of ERR11^T and closely related sequences revealed that strains belonging to 10.1601/nm.25806 branch (10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DUSDA+4 and 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DCCBAU+15615), were the closest strains to the strain ERR11^T with 95.2% ANI. Type strain ERR11^T showed the highest DDH predicted value with 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DCCBAU+15615 (58.5%), followed by 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DUSDA+4 (53.1%). Nevertheless, the ANI and DDH values obtained between ERR11^T and 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DCCBAU+15615 or 10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DUSDA+4 were below the cutoff values (ANI ≥ 96.5%; DDH ≥ 70%) for strains belonging to the same species, suggesting that ERR11^T is a new species. Therefore, based on the phylogenetic analysis, ANI and DDH values, we formally propose the creation of 10.1601/nm.30737 sp. nov. with strain ERR11^T (10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DHAMBI+3532 ^T=10.1601/strainfinder?urlappend=%3Fid%3DLMG+30162 ^T) as the type strain.

Anaerobic Reduction of Nitrate to Nitrous Oxide Is Lower in Bradyrhizobium japonicum than in Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens

When soil oxygen levels decrease, some bradyrhizobia use denitrification as an alternative form of respiration. Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens (nos⁺) completely denitrifies nitrate (NO₃^-) to dinitrogen, whereas B. japonicum (nos^-) is unable to reduce nitrous oxide to dinitrogen. We found that anaerobic growth with NO₃^- as the electron acceptor was significantly lower in B. japonicum than in B. diazoefficiens, and this was not explained by the absence of nos in B. japonicum. Our results indicate that the reason for the limited growth of B. japonicum is weak NO₃^- reduction due to impaired periplasmic nitrate reductase activity, which may rely on posttranscriptional events.

Transcriptional analysis of genes involved in competitive nodulation in Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens at the presence of soybean root exudates

Nodulation competition is a key factor that limits symbiotic nitrogen fixation between rhizobia and their host legumes. Soybean root exudates (SREs) are thought to act as signals that influence Bradyrhizobium ability to colonize roots and to survive in the rhizosphere, and thus they act as a key determinant of nodulation competitiveness. In order to find the competitiveness-related genes in B. diazoefficiens, the transcriptome of two SREs treated B. diazoefficiens with completely different nodulation abilities (B. diazoefficiens 4534 and B. diazoefficiens 4222) were sequenced and compared. In SREs treated strain 4534 (SREs-4534), 253 unigenes were up-regulated and 204 unigenes were down-regulated. In SREs treated strain 4534 (SREs-4222), the numbers of up- and down-regulated unigenes were 108 and 185, respectively. There were considerable differences between the SREs-4534 and SREs-4222 gene expression profiles. Some differentially expressed genes are associated with a two-component system (i.g., nodW, phyR-σEcfG), bacterial chemotaxis (i.g., cheA, unigene04832), ABC transport proteins (i.g., unigene02212), IAA (indole-3-acetic acid) metabolism (i.g., nthA, nthB), and metabolic fitness (i.g., put.), which may explain the higher nodulation competitiveness of B. diazoefficiens in the rhizosphere. Our results provide a comprehensive transcriptomic resource for SREs treated B. diazoefficiens and will facilitate further studies on competitiveness-related genes in B. diazoefficiens.

Complete Genome Sequence of Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA 122, a Nitrogen-Fixing Soybean Symbiont

We report the complete genome sequence of Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA 122, a nitrogen-fixing soybean symbiont. The genome consists of a 9.1 Mb circular chromosome, and 8,551 coding sequences (CDSs) were predicted on the genome. The sequence will provide insight into the evolution of rhizobial genome, and the symbiotic compatibility with host plants.

Complete Genome Sequence of Bradyrhizobium japonicum J5, Isolated from a Soybean Nodule in Hokkaido, Japan

Soybean bradyrhizobia form root nodules on soybean plants and symbiotically fix N₂. Strain J5 is phylogenetically far from well-known representatives within the Bradyrhizobium japonicum linage. The complete genome showed the largest single chromosomal (10.1 Mb) and symbiosis island (998 kb) among complete genomes of soybean bradyrhizobia.

Geographic Impact on Genomic Divergence as Revealed by Comparison of Nine Citromicrobial Genomes

Aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria (AAPB) are thought to be important players in oceanic carbon and energy cycling in the euphotic zone of the ocean. The genus Citromicrobium, widely found in oligotrophic oceans, is a member of marine alphaproteobacterial AAPB. Nine Citromicrobium strains isolated from the South China Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, or the tropical South Atlantic Ocean were found to harbor identical 16S rRNA sequences. The sequencing of their genomes revealed high synteny in major regions. Nine genetic islands (GIs) involved mainly in type IV secretion systems, flagellar biosynthesis, prophage, and integrative conjugative elements, were identified by a fine-scale comparative genomics analysis. These GIs played significant roles in genomic evolution and divergence. Interestingly, the coexistence of two different photosynthetic gene clusters (PGCs) was not only found in the analyzed genomes but also confirmed, for the first time, to our knowledge, in environmental samples. The prevalence of the coexistence of two different PGCs may suggest an adaptation mechanism for Citromicrobium members to survive in the oceans. Comparison of genomic characteristics (e.g., GIs, average nucleotide identity [ANI], single-nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs], and phylogeny) revealed that strains within a marine region shared a similar evolutionary history that was distinct from that of strains isolated from other regions (South China Sea versus Mediterranean Sea). Geographic differences are partly responsible for driving the observed genomic divergences and allow microbes to evolve through local adaptation. Three Citromicrobium strains isolated from the Mediterranean Sea diverged millions of years ago from other strains and evolved into a novel group.

IMPORTANCE

Aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria are a widespread functional group in the upper ocean, and their abundance could be up to 15% of the total heterotrophic bacteria. To date, a great number of studies display AAPB biogeographic distribution patterns in the ocean; however, little is understood about the geographic isolation impact on the genome divergence of marine AAPB. In this study, we compare nine Citromicrobium genomes of strains that have identical 16S rRNA sequences but different ocean origins. Our results reveal that strains isolated from the same marine region share a similar evolutionary history that is distinct from that of strains isolated from other regions. These Citromicrobium strains diverged millions of years ago. In addition, the coexistence of two different PGCs is prevalent in the analyzed genomes and in environmental samples.

Origin and Evolution of Nitrogen Fixation Genes on Symbiosis Islands and Plasmid in Bradyrhizobium

The nitrogen fixation (nif) genes of nodule-forming Bradyrhizobium strains are generally located on symbiosis islands or symbiosis plasmids, suggesting that these genes have been transferred laterally. The nif genes of rhizobial and non-rhizobial Bradyrhizobium strains were compared in order to infer the evolutionary histories of nif genes. Based on all codon positions, the phylogenetic tree of concatenated nifD and nifK sequences showed that nifDK on symbiosis islands formed a different clade from nifDK on non-symbiotic loci (located outside of symbiosis islands and plasmids) with elongated branches; however, these genes were located in close proximity, when only the 1st and 2nd codon positions were analyzed. The guanine (G) and cytosine (C) content of the 3rd codon position of nifDK on symbiosis islands was lower than that on non-symbiotic loci. These results suggest that nif genes on symbiosis islands were derived from the non-symbiotic loci of Bradyrhizobium or closely related strains and have evolved toward a lower GC content with a higher substitution rate than the ancestral state. Meanwhile, nifDK on symbiosis plasmids clustered with nifDK on non-symbiotic loci in the tree representing all codon positions, and the GC content of symbiotic and non-symbiotic loci were similar. These results suggest that nif genes on symbiosis plasmids were derived from the non-symbiotic loci of Bradyrhizobium and have evolved with a similar evolutionary pattern and rate as the ancestral state.

Segregation of nod-containing and nod-deficient bradyrhizobia as endosymbionts of Arachis hypogaea and as endophytes of Oryza sativa in intercropped fields of Bengal Basin, India

Bradyrhizobial invasion in dalbergoid legumes like Arachis hypogaea and endophytic bacterial invasions in non-legumes like Oryza sativa occur through epidermal cracks. Here, we show that there is no overlap between the bradyrhizobial consortia that endosymbiotically and endophytically colonise these plants. To minimise contrast due to phylogeographic isolation, strains were collected from Arachis/Oryza intercropped fields and a total of 17 bradyrhizobia from Arachis (WBAH) and 13 from Oryza (WBOS) were investigated. 16SrRNA and concatenated dnaK-glnII-recA phylogeny clustered the nodABC-positive WBAH and nodABC-deficient WBOS strains in two distinct clades. The in-field segregation is reproducible under controlled conditions which limits the factors that influence their competitive exclusion. While WBAH renodulated Arachis successfully, WBOS nodulated in an inefficient manner. Thus, Arachis, like other Aeschynomene legumes support nod-independent symbiosis that was ineffectual in natural fields. In Oryza, WBOS recolonised endophytically and promoted its growth. WBAH however caused severe chlorosis that was completely overcome when coinfected with WBOS. This explains the exclusive recovery of WBOS in Oryza in natural fields and suggests Nod-factors to have a role in counterselection of WBAH. Finally, canonical soxY1 and thiosulphate oxidation could only be detected in WBOS indicating loss of metabolic traits in WBAH with adaptation of symbiotic lifestyle.

Novel European free-living, non-diazotrophic Bradyrhizobium isolates from contrasting soils that lack nodulation and nitrogen fixation genes - a genome comparison

The slow-growing genus Bradyrhizobium is biologically important in soils, with different representatives found to perform a range of biochemical functions including photosynthesis, induction of root nodules and symbiotic nitrogen fixation and denitrification. Consequently, the role of the genus in soil ecology and biogeochemical transformations is of agricultural and environmental significance. Some isolates of Bradyrhizobium have been shown to be non-symbiotic and do not possess the ability to form nodules. Here we present the genome and gene annotations of two such free-living Bradyrhizobium isolates, named G22 and BF49, from soils with differing long-term management regimes (grassland and bare fallow respectively) in addition to carbon metabolism analysis. These Bradyrhizobium isolates are the first to be isolated and sequenced from European soil and are the first free-living Bradyrhizobium isolates, lacking both nodulation and nitrogen fixation genes, to have their genomes sequenced and assembled from cultured samples. The G22 and BF49 genomes are distinctly different with respect to size and number of genes; the grassland isolate also contains a plasmid. There are also a number of functional differences between these isolates and other published genomes, suggesting that this ubiquitous genus is extremely heterogeneous and has roles within the community not including symbiotic nitrogen fixation.

Metapopulation dominance and genomic-island acquisition of Bradyrhizobium with superior catabolic capabilities

Root nodule-forming rhizobia exhibit a bipartite lifestyle, replicating in soil and also within plant cells where they fix nitrogen for legume hosts. Host control models posit that legume hosts act as a predominant selective force on rhizobia, but few studies have examined rhizobial fitness in natural populations. Here, we genotyped and phenotyped Bradyrhizobium isolates across more than 800 km of the native Acmispon strigosus host range. We sequenced chromosomal genes expressed under free-living conditions and accessory symbiosis loci expressed in planta and encoded on an integrated 'symbiosis island' (SI). We uncovered a massive clonal expansion restricted to the Bradyrhizobium chromosome, with a single chromosomal haplotype dominating populations, ranging more than 700 km, and acquiring 42 divergent SI haplotypes, none of which were spatially widespread. For focal genotypes, we quantified utilization of 190 sole-carbon sources relevant to soil fitness. Chromosomal haplotypes that were both widespread and dominant exhibited superior growth on diverse carbon sources, whereas these patterns were not mirrored among SI haplotypes. Abundance, spatial range and catabolic superiority of chromosomal, but not symbiosis genotypes suggests that fitness in the soil environment, rather than symbiosis with hosts, might be the key driver of Bradyrhizobium dominance.

Identification of the Hydrogen Uptake Gene Cluster for Chemolithoautotrophic Growth and Symbiosis Hydrogen Uptake in Bradyrhizobium Diazoefficiens

The hydrogen uptake (Hup) system of Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens recycles the H2 released by nitrogenase in soybean nodule symbiosis, and is responsible for H2-dependent chemolithoautotrophic growth. The strain USDA110 has two hup gene clusters located outside (locus I) and inside (locus II) a symbiosis island. Bacterial growth under H2-dependent chemolithoautotrophic conditions was markedly weaker and H2 production by soybean nodules was markedly stronger for the mutant of hup locus I (ΔhupS1L1) than for the mutant of hup locus II (ΔhupS2L2). These results indicate that locus I is primarily responsible for Hup activity.

High-quality permanent draft genome sequence of Bradyrhizobium sp. strain WSM1743 - an effective microsymbiont of an Indigofera sp. growing in Australia

Bradyrhizobium sp. strain WSM1743 is an aerobic, motile, Gram-negative, non-spore-forming rod that can exist as a soil saprophyte or as a legume microsymbiont of an Indigofera sp. WSM1743 was isolated from a nodule recovered from the roots of an Indigofera sp. growing 20 km north of Carnarvon in Australia. It is slow growing, tolerates up to 1 % NaCl and is capable of growth at 37 °C. Here we describe the features of Bradyrhizobium sp. strain WSM1743, together with genome sequence information and its annotation. The 8,341,956 bp high-quality permanent draft genome is arranged into 163 scaffolds and 167 contigs, contains 7908 protein-coding genes and 75 RNA-only encoding genes and was sequenced as part of the Root Nodule Bacteria chapter of the Genomic Encyclopedia of Bacteria and Archaea project.

Symbiosis island shuffling with abundant insertion sequences in the genomes of extra-slow-growing strains of soybean bradyrhizobia

Extra-slow-growing bradyrhizobia from root nodules of field-grown soybeans harbor abundant insertion sequences (ISs) and are termed highly reiterated sequence-possessing (HRS) strains. We analyzed the genome organization of HRS strains with the focus on IS distribution and symbiosis island structure. Using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, we consistently detected several plasmids (0.07 to 0.4 Mb) in the HRS strains (NK5, NK6, USDA135, 2281, USDA123, and T2), whereas no plasmids were detected in the non-HRS strain USDA110. The chromosomes of the six HRS strains (9.7 to 10.7 Mb) were larger than that of USDA110 (9.1 Mb). Using MiSeq sequences of 6 HRS and 17 non-HRS strains mapped to the USDA110 genome, we found that the copy numbers of ISRj1, ISRj2, ISFK1, IS1632, ISB27, ISBj8, and IS1631 were markedly higher in HRS strains. Whole-genome sequencing showed that the HRS strain NK6 had four small plasmids (136 to 212 kb) and a large chromosome (9,780 kb). Strong colinearity was found between 7.4-Mb core regions of the NK6 and USDA110 chromosomes. USDA110 symbiosis islands corresponded mainly to five small regions (S1 to S5) within two variable regions, V1 (0.8 Mb) and V2 (1.6 Mb), of the NK6 chromosome. The USDA110 nif gene cluster (nifDKENXSBZHQW-fixBCX) was split into two regions, S2 and S3, where ISRj1-mediated rearrangement occurred between nifS and nifB. ISs were also scattered in NK6 core regions, and ISRj1 insertion often disrupted some genes important for survival and environmental responses. These results suggest that HRS strains of soybean bradyrhizobia were subjected to IS-mediated symbiosis island shuffling and core genome degradation.

Genome analysis of a novel Bradyrhizobium sp. DOA9 carrying a symbiotic plasmid

Bradyrhizobium sp. DOA9 isolated from the legume Aeschynomene americana exhibited a broad host range and divergent nodulation (nod) genes compared with other members of the Bradyrhizobiaceae. Genome analysis of DOA9 revealed that its genome comprised a single chromosome of 7.1 Mbp and a plasmid of 0.7 Mbp. The chromosome showed highest similarity with that of the nod gene-harboring soybean symbiont B. japonicum USDA110, whereas the plasmid showed highest similarity with pBBta01 of the nod gene-lacking photosynthetic strain BTAi1, which nodulates Aeschynomene species. Unlike in other bradyrhizobia, the plasmid of DOA9 encodes genes related to symbiotic functions including nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and type III/IV protein secretion systems. The plasmid has also a lower GC content (60.1%) than the chromosome (64.4%). These features suggest that the plasmid could be the origin of the symbiosis island that is found in the genome of other bradyrhizobia. The nod genes of DOA9 exhibited low similarity with those of other strains. The nif gene cluster of DOA9 showed greatest similarity to those of photosynthetic bradyrhizobia. The type III/IV protein secretion systems of DOA9 are similar to those of nod gene-harboring B. elkanii and photosynthetic BTAi1. The DOA9 genome exhibited intermediate characteristics between nod gene-harboring bradyrhizobia and nod gene-lacking photosynthetic bradyrhizobia, thus providing the evidence for the evolution of the Bradyrhizobiaceae during ecological adaptation. Bradyrhizobium sp. DOA9 isolated from the legume Aeschynomene americana exhibited a broad host range and divergent nodulation (nod) genes compared with other members of the Bradyrhizobiaceae. Genome analysis of DOA9 revealed that its genome comprised a single chromosome of 7.1 Mbp and a plasmid of 0.7 Mbp. The chromosome showed highest similarity with that of the nod gene-harboring soybean symbiont B. japonicum USDA110, whereas the plasmid showed highest similarity with pBBta01 of the nod gene-lacking photosynthetic strain BTAi1, which nodulates Aeschynomene species. Unlike in other bradyrhizobia, the plasmid of DOA9 encodes genes related to symbiotic functions including nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and type III/IV protein secretion systems. The plasmid has also a lower GC content (60.1%) than the chromosome (64.4%). These features suggest that the plasmid could be the origin of the symbiosis island that is found in the genome of other bradyrhizobia. The nod genes of DOA9 exhibited low similarity with those of other strains. The nif gene cluster of DOA9 showed greatest similarity to those of photosynthetic bradyrhizobia. The type III/IV protein secretion systems of DOA9 are similar to those of nod gene-harboring B. elkanii and photosynthetic BTAi1. The DOA9 genome exhibited intermediate characteristics between nod gene-harboring bradyrhizobia and nod gene-lacking photosynthetic bradyrhizobia, thus providing the evidence for the evolution of the Bradyrhizobiaceae during ecological adaptation.

Genome Sequence of Bradyrhizobium japonicum E109, One of the Most Agronomically Used Nitrogen-Fixing Rhizobacteria in Argentina

We present here the complete genome sequence of Bradyrhizobium japonicum strain E109, one of the most used rhizobacteria for soybean inoculation in Argentina since the 1970s. The genome consists of a 9.22-Mbp single chromosome and contains several genes related to nitrogen fixation, phytohormone biosynthesis, and a rhizospheric lifestyle.