AUTHOR=Medina-Chávez Nahui Olin , Torres-Cerda Abigail , Chacón Jeremy M. , Harcombe William R. , De la Torre-Zavala Susana , Travisano Michael 

TITLE=Disentangling a metabolic cross-feeding in a halophilic archaea-bacteria consortium

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Microbiology

VOLUME=14

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1276438

DOI=10.3389/fmicb.2023.1276438

ISSN=1664-302X

ABSTRACT=<p>Microbial syntrophy, a cooperative metabolic interaction among prokaryotes, serves a critical role in shaping communities, due to the auxotrophic nature of many microorganisms. Syntrophy played a key role in the evolution of life, including the hypothesized origin of eukaryotes. In a recent exploration of the microbial mats within the exceptional and uniquely extreme Cuatro Cienegas Basin (CCB), a halophilic isolate, designated as AD140, emerged as a standout due to its distinct growth pattern. Subsequent genome sequencing revealed AD140 to be a co-culture of a halophilic archaeon from the <italic>Halorubrum</italic> genus and a marine halophilic bacterium, <italic>Marinococcus luteus</italic>, both occupying the same ecological niche. This intriguing coexistence hints at an early-stage symbiotic relationship that thrives on adaptability. By delving into their metabolic interdependence through genomic analysis, this study aims to uncover shared characteristics that enhance their symbiotic association, offering insights into the evolution of halophilic microorganisms and their remarkable adaptations to high-salinity environments.</p>