Genomic analysis of Sulfitobacter sp. PM12 reveals its role in betaine metabolism

Abstract

Betaine is a zwitterionic compatible compound, which is widely distributed in nature and can be found in a variety of microorganisms. It plays key roles in osmotic protection and one‑carbon metabolism. Sulfitobacter sp. PM12, a Gram-negative and aerobic bacterium, was isolated from the deep-sea samples collected from the Mariana Trench. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of strain PM12 and its genomic characteristics to synthesize and catabolize betaine. The genome of strain PM12 contains one circular chromosome (3,009,717 bp) and seven circular plasmids. Genomic analysis showed that strain PM12 contained a set of genes involved in betaine biosynthesis and biodegradation, indicating that it possesses the ability to metabolize betaine. This study enlarges our understanding of the betaine metabolism driven by bacteria in the ocean, and reveals the potential strategy of the strain PM12 to adapt the extreme environments of the Mariana Trench.