Complete genome sequence of the filamentous anoxygenic phototrophic bacterium Chloroflexus aurantiacus
2011

Complete Genome Sequence of Chloroflexus aurantiacus

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Tang Kuo-Hsiang, Kerrie Barry, Chertkov Olga, Dalin Eileen, Han Cliff S, Hauser Loren J, Honchak Barbara M, Karbach Lauren E, Land Miriam L, Lapidus Alla, Larimer Frank W, Mikhailova Natalia, Pitluck Samuel, Pierson Beverly K, Blankenship Robert E

Primary Institution: Washington University in St. Louis

Hypothesis

How does the genome of Chloroflexus aurantiacus facilitate its growth under both anaerobic and aerobic conditions?

Conclusion

The genomic analyses indicate that Chloroflexus aurantiacus has unique features in its metabolic pathways that may provide insights into the evolution of photosynthesis.

Supporting Evidence

  • Chloroflexus aurantiacus can grow both phototrophically and chemotrophically.
  • The genome contains genes for a chimeric photosystem.
  • Genomic evidence suggests adaptations for oxygen tolerance.
  • Genes for both aerobic and anaerobic enzyme pairs are present.
  • The genome size is comparable to other phototrophic Chloroflexi species.
  • Genomic information is consistent with previous physiological studies.
  • Chloroflexus aurantiacus has unique features in its metabolic pathways.
  • The complete genome may provide insights into the evolution of photosynthesis.

Takeaway

Chloroflexus aurantiacus is a special bacterium that can live in both oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor environments, and its genome helps us understand how it does this.

Methodology

The complete genomic sequence was determined, analyzed, and compared to other photosynthetic bacteria.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2164-12-334

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