The silicon transporters (SITs) gene was found inSynechococcussp. XM24

Abstract

AbstractSilicate serves as a crucial nutrient for diatoms, which are capable of absorbing dissolved silicon from their surroundings through silicon transporters (SITs), thus playing a significant role in the global ocean’s silicon cycle. Recent studies have indicated that marine single-celledSynechococcusalso has the ability to accumulate silicon. Given that the evolution ofSynechococcuspredates that of diatoms, it is postulated thatSynechococcusmay utilize transporters such as SITs found in diatoms, to absorb dissolved silicon in the ocean. This research delves into the silicon accumulation inSynechococcussp. XM24, particularly focusing on two key aspects. Firstly, the study investigates the potential presence of SITs inSynechococcussp. XM24 under the condition of Depleted-Repleted silicate. Subsequently, two gene sequences suspected to encodeSITs, were identified, and their protein sequences and functions were successfully predicted, shedding light on their involvement in membrane transport processes.