Genomic Insights into Carotenoid Biosynthesis and Other Putative Functional Traits of Hot Spring-Derived Paracoccus bogoriensis PH1
Anuttree Inyoo, Jeeraporn Pekkoh, Chayakorn Pumas, Pachara Sattayawat, Wasu Pathom-aree, Sakunnee Bovonsombut, Amonrat Kanokrung, Rawiwan Watanadilok, Thidarat Nimchua, Phitsanu Pinmanee, Paweena Thongkred, Kanok Wongratpanya, Wuttichai Mhuantong, Jintana Pheepakpraw, Nipitpong Sawongta, Thararat ChitovIn this study, the genome sequence of a carotenoid-producing Paracoccus strain, PH1, isolated from a hot spring in Northern Thailand, was characterised. Functional analyses focused on stress tolerance, carotenoid production, micronutrient biosynthesis, probiotic properties, biofilm formation, and safety profiles. Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) and phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene confirmed its taxonomic classification as Paracoccus bogoriensis. Genome annotation identified biosynthetic gene clusters for ectoine and carotenoids, along with stress tolerance genes, corroborating previously reported phenotypic characteristics. Furthermore, genome mining revealed putative functions for the biosynthesis of B-complex vitamins, short-chain fatty acids, and pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), as well as determinants associated with probiotic potential, including acid and bile tolerance, biofilm formation, and cellular adhesion. No antibiotic resistance determinants or virulence-associated genes were detected. These genomic findings highlight the multifaceted biotechnological potential of this hot spring-derived Paracoccus strain, warranting further functional evaluation in relevant application contexts.