Comparative genomic analysis on the diversity of bacterial cellulose synthesis related genes in the genus Komagataeibacter

Abstract

Acetic acid bacteria have a long-standing history of their applications in fermentation processes. In particular, Komagataeibacter species have been highlighted as bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) producers. Komagateaibacter sp. SFCB22-18, isolated from persimmon vinegar, showed high BNC productivity, thus sequenced to explore its genomic components for bacterial cellulose biosynthesis. Four types of bcs clusters were identified and comparatively analyzed in 61 genomes of Komagataeibacter spp. including the strain SFCB22-18. A total of 170 bcs clusters were identified in the 61 genomes, including 52 bcs1, 49 bcs2, 28 bcs3 and 41 bcs4 clusters, respectively. In addition, a similarity network was constructed with the sequences of the identified clusters to compare the underlying genomic basis of BNC production. The network revealed the sequence space and genetic diversity of bcs clusters in the genus Komagataeibacter. Information on validated BNC production was overlaid with the network, suggesting required genetic components and possible variations for higher yield. The results may provide valuable information in synthetic or heterologous BNC production for food Pickering emulsions.