Unveiling the hidden role of aquatic viruses in hydrocarbon pollution bioremediation

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132299
• Publication Date: 2023-08-15T00:54:12Z
• Authors: Jinlong Ru; Jinling Xue; Jianfeng Sun; Linda Cova; Li Deng
• Keywords: Biodegradation, Environmental; 13. Climate action; Alkanes; Bacteriophages; Phylogeny; Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbon pollution poses substantial environmental risks to water and soil. Bioremediation, which utilizes microorganisms manage pollutants, offers a cost-effective solution. However, the role of viruses, particularly bacteriophages (phages), in bioremediation remains unexplored. This study examines diversity activity hydrocarbon-degradation genes encoded by focusing on phages, within public databases. We identified 57 high-quality phage-encoded auxiliary metabolic (AMGs) related hydrocarbon degradation, we refer as virus-encoded degradation (vHYDEGs). These are taxonomically diverse aquatic phages highlight under-characterized global virosphere. Six protein families involved initial alkane hydroxylation steps were identified. Phylogenetic analyses revealed evolutionary trajectories vHYDEGs across habitats, revealing previously unknown biodegraders linked evolutionarily with vHYDEGs. Our findings suggest phage AMGs may contribute aromatic participating initial, rate-limiting steps, thereby aiding promoting their propagation. To support future research, developed vHyDeg, database containing comprehensive annotations, facilitating screening encouraging applications.