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Insertion sequence contributes to the evolution and environmental adaptation of Acidithiobacillus
Shanshan Huang1, Huiying Li1, Liyuan Ma2,3
1School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, 410083, Changsha, China.
BMC Genomics
|May 25, 2023
Summary
Insertion sequences (ISs) significantly impact Acidithiobacillus evolution and adaptation to acid mine drainage. These mobile genetic elements enhance heavy metal resistance and sulfur utilization, improving survival in extreme environments.
Area of Science:
- Microbial Genomics
- Evolutionary Biology
- Environmental Microbiology
Background:
- The genus Acidithiobacillus is crucial for acid mine drainage (AMD) due to its survival and oxidation capabilities.
- The role of insertion sequences (ISs) in the evolution and adaptation of Acidithiobacillus remains underexplored.
- ISs are mobile genetic elements that can influence gene function and regulation through transposition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution, evolution, and functional impact of ISs within Acidithiobacillus genomes.
- To understand how ISs contribute to the adaptation of Acidithiobacillus in extreme environments.
Main Methods:
- Genomic analysis of 36 Acidithiobacillus genomes.
- Identification and classification of insertion sequences and their families.
- Phylogenetic analysis of IS distribution and host genomes.
- Functional annotation of genes adjacent to IS insertions.
Main Results:
- 248 IS members from 23 families with 10,652 copies were identified across the analyzed genomes.
- Significant variation in IS copy numbers and families among Acidithiobacillus species suggests uneven distribution.
- IS distribution patterns differed from host genome evolutionary trends, indicating environmental influence on IS activity.
- IS insertions were frequently found near genes involved in heavy metal translocation (As/Hg/Cu/Co/Zn/Cd) and sulfur oxidation.
Conclusions:
- Genomic evidence demonstrates the significant contribution of ISs to the evolution and adaptation of Acidithiobacillus.
- ISs enhance Acidithiobacillus's adaptive capacity by improving heavy metal resistance and sulfur utilization in acidic environments.
- This study provides new insights into the genome plasticity of acidophilic bacteria.
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