From genes to nanotubes: exploring the UV-resistome in the Andean extremophile Exiguobacterium sp. S17.

Abstract

Exiguobacterium sp. S17, a polyextremophile isolated from a High-Altitude Andean Lake, exhibits a multi-resistance profile against toxic arsenic concentrations, high UV radiation, and elevated salinity. Here, we characterize the mechanisms underlying the UV resistance of Exiguobacterium sp. S17 (UV-resistome) through comparative genomics within the Exiguobacterium genus and describe morphological and ultrastructural changes using Scanning (SEM) and Transmission (TEM) Electron Microscopy.UV-resistome in Exiguobacterium species ranges from 112 to 132 genes. While we anticipated Exiguobacterium sp. S17 to lead the non-HAAL UV-resistome, it ranked eleventh with 113 genes. This larger UV-resistome in Exiguobacterium spp. aligns with their known adaptation to extreme environments. With SEM/TEM analyses we observed the formation of nanotubes (NTs), a novel finding in Exiguobacterium spp., which increased with higher UV-B doses. These NTs, confirmed to be membranous structures through sensitivity studies and imaging, suggest a role in cellular communication and environmental sensing. Genomic evidence supports the presence of essential NT biogenesis genes in Exiguobacterium sp. S17, further elucidating its adaptive capabilities.Our study highlights the complex interplay of genetic and phenotypic adaptations enabling Exiguobacterium sp. S17 to thrive in extreme UV environments. The novel discovery of NTs under UV stress presents a new avenue for understanding bacterial survival strategies in harsh conditions.