The Rare Actinobacterium Crossiella sp. Is a Potential Source of New Bioactive Compounds with Activity against Bacteria and Fungi

Researchers have identified two strains of the rare actinobacterium genus Crossiella, potentially representing a new species, isolated from Altamira Cave in Spain. These strains exhibit promising antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi. In silico analyses revealed a unique combination of gene clusters involved in the synthesis of bioactive compounds such as lanthipeptides, lasso peptides, nonribosomal peptides, and polyketides, suggesting that Crossiella species could be a valuable source for discovering new antimicrobial agents. The study highlights the untapped potential of subterranean environments like caves for biotechnological applications, offering hope in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance.

Gonzalez-Pimentel, J. L., Dominguez-Moñino, I., Jurado, V., Laiz, L., Caldeira, A. T., & Saiz-Jimenez, C. (2022). The Rare Actinobacterium Crossiella sp. Is a Potential Source of New Bioactive Compounds with Activity against Bacteria and Fungi. Microorganisms, 10(8), 1575. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms10081575