Genome Analysis of Two Lichen Bacteriobionts, <i>Lichenibacterium</i> <i>ramalinae</i> and <i>Lichenibacterium minor</i>: Factors of Virulence and Adaptation

Abstract

Successful invasion and adaptation of bacteria into lichen symbiosis requires the involvement of a number of physiological mechanisms that regulate interactions between bacteriobionts, mycobionts and algobionts and ensure the optimization of thallus growth and development. The genomes of two lichen bacteriobionts Lichenibacterium ramalinae and L. minor were analysed to identify those factors. No nodulation genes traditional for rhizobia were found. TIGR02302 protein has been suggested to have a similar function. Genes encoding proteins associated with the implementation of planktonic and biofilm phenotypes – flagellins and pilins – have been found. These genes have a high level of similarity with the genes of plant symbiont bacteria. Genetic determinants of virulence factors such as locus B invasion proteins, Integration host factor (IHF), sensory histidine kinases, siderophore receptor and transport proteins and monooxygenase of antibiotic synthesis (Abm) were found in the genomes of the studied bacteria. The listed genes have similarities with those in organisms forming associations of different degrees of association with plants. Based on the data obtained, the assumption of a priority association of bacteria of the Lichenibacteriaceae family with green lichen algae was suggested.