Multi-metal-resistant Staphylococcus warneri strain TWSL_1: revealing heavy metal-resistant genomic features by whole-genome sequencing and analysis.

Abstract

This study explores the genomic basis of heavy metal resistance in Staphylococcus warneri strain TWSL_1, isolated from industrial textile effluent. The strain exhibited strong resistance to Cd²⁺, Pb²⁺ and Cu²⁺, with MICs of 50, 1,200 and 75 mg l^-1, respectively. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a 2.66 Mb genome with 2,567 CDSs and a 99.81% average nucleotide identity to S. warneri WS479. Comparative genomic analysis at the genus level revealed that S. warneri strain TWSL_1 possesses a unique and expanded repertoire of heavy metal resistance genes, including the cadmium efflux system accessory protein and cadmium resistance protein, which are absent in pathogenic Staphylococcus sp. used for the comparison. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed its classification within S. warneri, with strong bootstrap support (100). Functional annotation highlighted metabolic versatility and stress response capabilities, supporting its adaptation to metal-rich environments. S. warneri TWSL_1 demonstrated high Pb²⁺ removal efficiency, reducing concentrations by over 70%. These findings highlight S. warneri TWSL_1 as a promising candidate for heavy metal bioremediation with potential applications in environmental detoxification and monitoring strategies.