Arsenic detoxification within thermo-alkaline biofilms
Introduction: The fundamental principles driving community composition and dynamics of microbial mats in thermoalkaline springs are largely uncharacterized. High in not only temperature but also arsenic (As), the microbial populations of Yellowstone National Parks (YNP) thermal springs require unique detoxification mechanisms to survive and carry out basic biological functions. Methods: While many studies have focused on which microbes are present, few studies have integrated the use of metagenome sequencing, imaging techniques, and mass spectrometry to gain insight into how structure and function of the mat dwelling organisms might be impacted by the high arsenical species in the ecosystem. Results: Here, we demonstrate via metagenome sequencing that community composition, including microbial genera Roseiflexus, Thermus, and Synechococcus, and as detoxifica?tion abilities change with mat depth and distance from the springs. Arsenical speciation confirmed the generation of bioarsenicals by mat-dwelling microbes. Microscopy revealed stratification of microbes in the mat, potentially reflecting their arsenic redox capabilities. Discussion: These data demonstrate how microbial mats are modular, stratified systems that shape and are shaped by environmental and geo?chemical gradients. Together, these findings characterize novel complexity and associations between geochemical cycles of metals and metabolic adaptations necessary for microbes to inhabit thermal springs. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate physiochemical heterogeneity of microbial mats in YNP.
Introduction: The fundamental principles driving community composition and dynamics of microbial mats in thermoalkaline springs are largely uncharacterized. High in not only temperature but also arsenic (As), the microbial populations of Yellowstone National Parks (YNP) thermal springs require unique detoxification mechanisms to survive and carry out basic biological functions. Methods: While many studies have focused on which microbes are present, few studies have integrated the use of metagenome sequencing, imaging techniques, and mass spectrometry to gain insight into how structure and function of the mat dwelling organisms might be impacted by the high arsenical species in the ecosystem. Results: Here, we demonstrate via metagenome sequencing that community composition, including microbial genera Roseiflexus, Thermus, and Synechococcus, and as detoxifica?tion abilities change with mat depth and distance from the springs. Arsenical speciation confirmed the generation of bioarsenicals by mat-dwelling microbes. Microscopy revealed stratification of microbes in the mat, potentially reflecting their arsenic redox capabilities. Discussion: These data demonstrate how microbial mats are modular, stratified systems that shape and are shaped by environmental and geo?chemical gradients. Together, these findings characterize novel complexity and associations between geochemical cycles of metals and metabolic adaptations necessary for microbes to inhabit thermal springs. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate physiochemical heterogeneity of microbial mats in YNP.
Center for Biofilm Engineering