Major Compatible Solutes and Structural Adaptation of Proteins in Extremophiles

Extremophiles are the most ancient microbes on the Earth and also a center of attraction for the scientific community for research because of their ability to adapt to extreme habitats. Compatible solutes are among those factors which enable these microorganisms to thrive in such extreme habitats. Under osmotic stress, the majority of extremophiles accumulate specific organic solutes such as amino acids, sugars, polyols, and their derivatives. In addition, proteins in extremophiles are found to be evolved by changing their amino acid composition to alter the hydrophobicity of its core and surface charge to maintain activity. This chapter encompasses a comprehensive study about the role of various compatible solutes in the endurance of microorganisms under extremophilic conditions, synthesis of compatible solutes, nature of extremophilic proteins, and their applications. Furthermore, an attempt has been made to cover various strategies adopted by the scientific community while pursuing research on compatible solutes.