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Characterization of C16–C36 alkane degradation and oily sludge bioremediation by Rhodococcus erythropolis XP

Summary

This research describes a highly effective bacterium, Rhodococcus erythropolis XP, that can break down the persistent oily components found in petroleum pollution. The strain can degrade oil alkanes ranging from 16 to 36 carbon atoms in length, making it superior to most other known oil-degrading bacteria. Researchers also developed a faster analytical method to detect and measure alkane degradation and identified a key enzyme that helps the bacteria metabolize these contaminants.

Background

Oil contamination poses significant environmental and health risks due to the chemical stability and persistence of petroleum hydrocarbons. Medium- and long-chain alkanes are major components of petroleum and persist in terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Bioremediation using alkane-degrading bacteria represents an efficient and sustainable approach to address oil pollution.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the alkane degradation capacity of Rhodococcus erythropolis XP, evaluate its bioremediation potential in oily sludge, identify metabolic pathways, and characterize a novel Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenase (BVMO_4041) involved in subterminal alkane degradation.

Results

Rhodococcus erythropolis XP degraded over 95% of 500–2,500 mg/L C20 within 72 hours and demonstrated the ability to degrade C16–C36 n-alkanes and pristane. LPGC-MS successfully separated C9–C40 alkanes within 12 minutes. In oily sludge, notable biodegradation of C14–C30 alkanes was observed. Metabolic intermediates revealed both terminal and subterminal degradation pathways. The novel BVMO_4041 enzyme catalyzed Baeyer-Villiger oxidation of medium-chain aliphatic ketones.

Conclusion

Rhodococcus erythropolis XP represents a highly efficient alkane-degrading strain with broad substrate spectrum and strong bioremediation capacity. The LPGC-MS methodology provides rapid detection of alkane degradation. Characterization of BVMO_4041 enriches the understanding of subterminal alkane degradation pathways and provides valuable resources for both practical bioremediation and microbial research applications.
  • Published in:Applied and Environmental Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.1128/aem.02124-25; PMID: 41334916
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