2024/11/06 by Dana B. Griffiths, Ravi Tiwari, Daniel V. Murphy +1 · 1 voice
Energy · Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · #Algal biology and biofuel production #Photosynthetic Processes and Mechanisms #Marine Sponges and Natural Products
paper · doi:10.1038/s41598-024-78438-8
openalex publication_date 2024/11/06 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/23
The Haloferacaceae are a family of extremely halophilic archaea with many species producing enzymes and products beneficial for industrial biotechnology. They are, however, relatively under-characterised with regards to genetics and gene products. This study aims to use existing sequence data to highlight genetic diversity, create pangenomes for three genera, and provide secondary metabolite and pathway analysis. This will establish current knowledge and identify key gaps in research. We show that the Haloferacaceae have significant genetic diversity between genera, with numerous gene gain and loss events in key genera. It also found that the model genus, Haloferax, has relatively low identified secondary metabolites compared to other genera within the family. Additionally, this study has identified potential biotechnology targets for heterologous expression in model organisms.