Genome Insights into the Novel Species <i>Jejubacter calystegiae</i>, a Plant Growth-Promoting Bacterium in Saline Conditions

• Main Authors: Ling Min Jiang, Yong Jae Lee, Ho Le Han, Myoung Hui Lee, Jae Cheol Jeong, Cha Young Kim, Suk Weon Kim, Ji Young Lee
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-01-01
• Series: Diversity
• Subjects: genome sequence; <i>J. calystegiae</i>; salinity stress; secondary metabolites; plant growth promotion
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-2818/13/1/24

<i>Jejubacter calystegiae</i> KSNA2^T, a moderately halophilic, endophytic bacterium isolated from beach morning glory (<i>Calystegia soldanella</i>), was determined to be a novel species in a new genus in the family <i>Enterobacteriaceae</i>. To gain insights into the genetic basis of the salinity stress response of strain KSNA2^T, we sequenced its genome using two complementary sequencing platforms (Illumina HiSeq and PacBio RSII). The genome contains a repertoire of metabolic pathways, such as those for nitrogen, phosphorus, and some amino acid metabolism pathways. Functional annotation of the KSNA2^T genome revealed several genes involved in salt tolerance pathways, such as those encoding sodium transporters, potassium transporters, and osmoprotectant enzymes. Plant growth-promoting bacteria-based experiments indicated that strain KSNA2^T promotes the germination of vegetable seeds in saline conditions. Overall, the genetic and biological analyses of strain KSNA2^T provide valuable insights into bacteria-mediated salt tolerance in agriculture.