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Streptomyces antarcticus sp. nov., isolated from Horseshoe Island, Antarctica

Summary

Scientists discovered a new type of bacteria called Streptomyces antarcticus in Antarctic soil that can survive extreme cold and produce valuable compounds. This bacterium can make antibiotics, cancer-fighting molecules, and other useful substances, making it potentially useful for medicine and industry. The bacteria also has genes to break down pharmaceutical pollutants and adapt to harsh conditions, suggesting applications in cleaning up contaminated environments.

Background

Antarctica represents an unexplored habitat with extreme conditions including intense UV radiation, cold temperatures, and oxidative stress. Actinobacteria, particularly Streptomyces species, are prolific producers of bioactive compounds including antibiotics and pharmaceuticals. The genus Streptomyces currently contains 759 validly published species with significant commercial and clinical relevance.

Objective

To isolate and characterize novel actinobacterial strains from soil samples collected on Horseshoe Island, Antarctica, and determine their taxonomic classification and biotechnological potential through genome-based comparative analysis and phenotypic characterization.

Results

Three strains (H27-S2T, H34-AA3, H34-S5) represent a novel Streptomyces species designated S. antarcticus, with H27-S2T as the type strain. Genome-based analyses confirmed they are distinct from closely related species (S. avidinii, S. subrutilus, S. xanthophaeus) with dDDH values of 90.2% and ANI values of 98.3-99.0% between strains. The strains possess extensive biosynthetic capabilities including genes for secondary metabolites, antimicrobial resistance, heavy metal resistance, and cold adaptation mechanisms.

Conclusion

Streptomyces antarcticus represents a novel species with significant biotechnological potential for pharmaceutical development, bioremediation, cryotechnology, and enzyme production. The strains’ ability to thrive in extreme Antarctic conditions and produce bioactive compounds including melanin, carotenoids, and antipain demonstrates their relevance for industrial and clinical applications.
  • Published in:International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Microbial Taxonomy and Genomics Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40720258, DOI: 10.1099/ijsem.0.006856
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