Molecular signature of hypersaline adaptation in halophilic prokaryotes
Author Information
Author(s): Paul Sandip, Bag Sumit K, Das Sabyasachi, Harvill Eric T, Dutta Chitra
Primary Institution: Indian Institute of Chemical Biology
Hypothesis
What are the specific genomic and proteomic features that characterize halophilic species independent of their genomic GC-content and taxonomic position?
Conclusion
Halophilic species exhibit distinct molecular signatures that indicate convergent evolution towards specific genome and amino acid compositions for adaptation to high-salt environments.
Supporting Evidence
- Halophilic species show low hydrophobicity and high acidic residue content.
- Distinct dinucleotide abundance profiles are observed in halophilic genomes.
- Convergent evolution is suggested by similar amino acid usage patterns across different halophiles.
Takeaway
This study shows that salt-loving microorganisms have special traits that help them survive in salty places, like using certain building blocks in their proteins.
Methodology
A comparative genomic and proteomic analysis of 6 halophilic and 24 non-halophilic microorganisms was conducted to identify molecular signatures of haloadaptation.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in the selection of organisms based on available genomic data.
Limitations
The study may not account for all possible environmental factors influencing halophilic adaptation.
Participant Demographics
6 halophilic and 24 non-halophilic prokaryotic species from various phyla.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<10-7
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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