preprint
Endophytic bacteria living within plant tissues produce secondary metabolites that support nutrient uptake, plant growth, and stress tolerance. This research used computational tools to examine the complete genome of Bacillus subtilis subsp. subtilis 168T to identify biosynthetic gene clusters responsible for producing these useful compounds. Using web-based annotation platforms and specialised gene cluster detection software, the analysis identified core clusters linked to secondary metabolites such as surfactin, bacillibactin, bacillaene, plipastatin, and terpenes. Comparative analysis showed a 91.44 percent genome similarity between this strain and Bacillus tequilensis KCTC 13622T. Additionally, protein interaction networks were modelled for the identified metabolites. The findings demonstrate that this bacterium harbours genetic potential for producing compounds relevant to biocontrol and plant growth promotion, alongside distinct antibiotic resistance gene profiles.
Understanding the genetic capabilities of plant-associated bacteria helps researchers identify natural compounds that can protect crops and improve yields. Computational screening provides a rapid method to discover valuable biological traits without initial laboratory extraction. Identifying specific gene clusters in well-studied strains highlights their potential to produce biological control agents and natural growth enhancers, offering sustainable alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals.
This study represents early-stage computational research that identifies genetic pathways rather than testing physical formulations. The findings could inform agricultural biotechnology developers seeking microbial candidates for biofertilisers or biocontrol agents against crop diseases. However, the work remains at an in silico stage, meaning extensive laboratory extraction, safety screening, and field trials will be required before any commercial products can be realised.
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The secondary metabolites of endophytic bacteria are mainly attributed to nutrient acquisition, enhanced plant growth, and alleviated resistance against stress. This study intended to do in silico analysis and detection of biosynthetic gene clusters encoded for secondary metabolites in the complete genome of B. subtilis subsp. subtilis 168T to understand biotechnological applications. B. subtilis subsp. subtilis 168T and related strains were re-annotated using RAST and SEED web servers. AntiSMASH analysis revealed the core biosynthetic gene clusters in the genome of B. subtilis subsp. subtilis str. 168T involved in various secondary metabolite productions, including surfactin, bacillibactin, bacillaene, plipastatin, terpene, and others. From OrthoANI analysis, 91.44% genome similarity was detected between B. subtilis subsp. subtilis str. 168T and B. tequilensis KCTC 13622T. Moreover, a computational prediction of biosynthetic gene clusters was observed by protein–protein network maps for various detected secondary metabolites in the recent study. In conclusion, an endophytic bacterium, specifically B. subtilis subsp. subtilis str. 168T, was a considerable source of secondary metabolites with biocontrol and growth-promoting properties and profiles of antibiotics resistance genes due to classes of various drugs.
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DOI: 10.1099/acmi.0.001314.v1
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