Comparative genomic analysis reveals metabolic flexibility of Woesearchaeota

Wen-Cong Huang, Yang Liu, Xinxu Zhang, Cui-Jing Zhang, Dayu Zou, Shiling Zheng, Wei Xu, Zhuhua Luo, Fanghua Liu and Meng Li ()
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Wen-Cong Huang: Shenzhen University
Yang Liu: Shenzhen University
Xinxu Zhang: Shenzhen University
Cui-Jing Zhang: Shenzhen University
Dayu Zou: Shenzhen University
Shiling Zheng: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Wei Xu: Ministry of Natural Resources
Zhuhua Luo: Ministry of Natural Resources
Fanghua Liu: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Meng Li: Shenzhen University

Nature Communications, 2021, vol. 12, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: Abstract The archaeal phylum Woesearchaeota, within the DPANN superphylum, includes phylogenetically diverse microorganisms that inhabit various environments. Their biology is poorly understood due to the lack of cultured isolates. Here, we analyze datasets of Woesearchaeota 16S rRNA gene sequences and metagenome-assembled genomes to infer global distribution patterns, ecological preferences and metabolic capabilities. Phylogenomic analyses indicate that the phylum can be classified into ten subgroups, termed A–J. While a symbiotic lifestyle is predicted for most, some members of subgroup J might be host-independent. The genomes of several Woesearchaeota, including subgroup J, encode putative [FeFe] hydrogenases (known to be important for fermentation in other organisms), suggesting that these archaea might be anaerobic fermentative heterotrophs.

Date: 2021
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25565-9

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