Extremophile bacteria

Why in news?

The recent research studies shows that extremophile bacteria can survive not only in extreme environments but also in microwaves.

What are extremophile microbes?

• Microbes  - They are microorganisms, tiny living organisms , that are too small to be seen with the naked eye.
• Microbes Type – Protozoa, bacteria, fungi and microscopic animal and plant viruses, viroids and also prions that are proteinacious infectious agents.
• Single or Multi cell - Microorganisms may be single-celled like bacteria, some algae and protozoa, or multicellular, such as many algae and fungi.
• Global Initiatives - Many global initiatives are currently trying to map, organise, and understand this diversity.
• Earth Microbiome Project -  It was founded in 2010 to sequence 200,000 genetic samples and assemble 500,000 microbial genomes.
• Earth Biogenome Project - To sequence the genomes of all of the planet’s eukaryotic organisms to create one of the largest and most comprehensive maps of organisms
• Habitats - They live in all types of environment, ranging from ice cold climate to hot springs; and deserts to marshy lands.
• They are also found inside the bodies of animals including humans.
• Some microorganisms grow on other organisms while others exist freely.
• Extremophiles – Microbes that live in extreme natural conditions are called extremophiles.
• They have been found in 
  • Hydrothermal and volcanic vents
  • Permafrost
  • Dark lakes buried kilometres under polar ice caps
  • Acid mines
  • Around nuclear waste storage sites.
  • Exteriors of spacecraft

Deinococcus radiodurans, an earth-born bacteria, could survive in outer space for more than three years, stuck to the outside of the International Space Station

• There are different types of extremophiles adapted to live in different extreme conditions.

• Radiation Resistant Extremophiles - Microbes that are resistant to radiation, desiccation, and high temperatures have been found in domestic microwaves and research facilities.

What are the adaptations of extremophiles microbes?

• Microbes adapt to extreme environments by incorporating unique biological and biochemical processes.
• Proteins and Enzymes- Their proteins and enzymes are often more stable and functional under extreme conditions, such as high temperatures or acidic pH.
• Extremozymes  - These organisms use unique enzymes, called extremozymes, which allow them to survive and function in harsh conditions.
• For example, thermophiles have heat-stable enzymes that are useful in industrial processes (e.g., PCR).
• Cell Membranes- They have unique membrane lipids that maintain fluidity and integrity under extreme temperatures or pressures.
• DNA Repair Mechanisms- Extremophiles have specialized mechanisms to repair DNA damage caused by extreme conditions, such as high radiation or desiccation.

What are their significance in science and industry?

• Understanding extremophiles could lead to advances in synthetic biology, disease resistance, and bioremediation.
• They offer potential for new medications and industrial applications.
• Enzyme development -  Extremophiles produce enzymes and proteins that remain stable and active under extreme conditions.
• These enzymes are used in industries like detergents, biofuels, and pharmaceuticals.
• Example - Heat-resistant enzymes like Taq DNA polymerase from Thermus aquaticus bacteria from a hot spring at Yellowstone National Park ,  is used in Polymerase Chain Reaction( PCR). 
• Bioremediation - Radiation Extremophiles are useful in bioremediation of toxic waste.
• Exoplanet search - Helps in understanding life in extreme environments, both on Earth and potentially on other planets.
• Medicine- Extremophiles’ unique proteins and metabolic pathways aid in creating new treatments and drugs, including antibiotics and other therapeutics.
• Genetic Research- Extremophiles’ unique genetic adaptations offer insights into gene regulation and stress responses, advancing genetic engineering.
• Understanding them can help in creating synthetic biological systems that can augment the immune system.
• Agriculture- Extremophiles can be used to develop crops that are more resistant to extreme conditions, helping improve food security in challenging environments.

References

1. The Hindu | Extremophile bacteria

2. Biolablest | Extremophiles

3. Britannica | Extremophile