Mining of a Norwegian biogoldmine through metagenomics

Hydrothermal vents located in the deep ocean along the Arctic Mid-Ocean Ridge can be characterized as some of the most extreme habitats found in the Norwegian sector. In depths down to 2,400 meters below sea level, we have discovered oases of life that feeds on reduced chemical compounds as a result of volcanic activity and water-rock reactions. In such extreme environment, the microorganisms must withstand extreme temperatures, extreme pH, high pressures and be resistant to toxic minerals. Such extreme habitats are known to act as a genetic reservoir for industrial biocatalysts (enzymes). In this project we have been studying genetic material from samples taken directly from these environments using metagenomics. In addition, we have stimulated the natural environments by setting out in situ incubators with complex organic compounds that are relevant to specific industrial processes. We have through the project period developed tools to sort this genetic material, creating models of selected enzyme classes and thereby identify and produce relevant biocatalysts. In addition, we have enriched and isolated microorganisms that can break down complex organic compounds and found new oil-degrading microorganisms. Our data suggest the presence of a large biotechnological potential in the extreme habitats along the Arctic Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Utilization of these genetic resources may strengthen the Norwegian bioeconomy in the future.

The future need for new and novel biocatalysts for the application in white biotechnology will boost the market for industrial enzymes. Biocatalysts produced by microorganisms living in extreme habitats, hostile for human life with elevated temperatures ( up to 120°C), high pressure in the deep sea (up to 1000 bar), pH extremes (0-12) and toxic chemical environments are well recognized for their industrial application. The unique discoveries performed at Centre for Geobiology (CGB) of deep sea hydrothermal vents located in Norwegian territorial waters along the Arctic mid-Ocean Ridge (AMOR) has the potential to substantially impact Norwegian industrial production. Over the past three years, we have sampled, characterized the microbial diversity and sequenc ed metagenomes of microbial communities situated on hydrothermal vent chimneys emitting fluids of 317°C at Loki?s Castle located at 73°30°N at 2400 m depth. These habitats provide an untapped genetic reservoir. In this proposed project we intend to exploi t this reservoir by 1) In collaboration with Nofima Ingrediens (Nofima) develop enzyme cocktails for degradation and transformation of fish waste to new and novel products; 2) identify biocatalysts complementary and possibly superior to well known-industr ial enzymes; 3) reveal the metabolisms of enriched oil-degrading microorganisms in samples collected from Loki's Castle. These objects will be fulfilled by the use of cutting edge metagenomics of natural samples as well as In situ stimulated communities, In silico modeling of biocatalysts, cloning, expression and characterization of target enzymes. We have access to large scale facilities for production of enzymes. The effects of new enzymes on production processes and product properties will be evaluated in specialized laboratories and pilot production plants available at Nofima. Potential commercial use will be evaluated by the University of Bergen's technology transfer infrastructure in collaboration with BTO.