Genomic analyzes of Methylobacterium mesophilicum SR1.6/6 with emphasis on the interaction with the host plant.

Methylobacterium genus are found in association with plant species, where they are able to promote plant growth, increase the photosynthetic activity and reduce the incidence of pathogens to the host. In addition to providing these benefits to the host plant, these bacteria can also produce biopolymers (PHA and PHB). Thus, the aim was to annotate the genome of Methylobacterium mesophilicum SR1.6 / 6 and assess their transcriptome in the early stages of interaction with Citrus sinensis. Genome analysis showed that SR1.6 / 6 can produce auxin, reduce plant stress by altering ethylene levels, presents population monitoring system (QS) and a complete methylotrophic metabolism. The transcriptomic analysis showed that C. sinensis exudates induce the expression of genes related to oxidative stress followed by induction of adhesion and biofilm genes during colonization of the host plant. The interaction between M. mesophilicum SR1.6 / 6 and the host plant involves recognition mechanisms and adaptation to stress, even before the first physical contact occurs between the bacterial cell and the host plant, followed by the induction of bacterial biofilm genes. Furthermore, a method has been studied for carrying genetic mutations in Methylobacterium spp. allowing the obtaining of mutants related to interaction with the plant. (AU)