Whole genome sequence analysis and in-vitro probiotic characterization of Bacillus velezensis FCW2 MCC4686 from spontaneously fermented coconut water.

In this study, the probiotic potential of B. velezensis FCW2, isolated from naturally fermented coconut water, was investigated by in vitro and genomic characterization. Our findings highlight key features of the bacterium which includes, antibacterial activity, high adhesive potential, aggregation capacity, production of nutrient secondary metabolites. In vivo safety assessment revealed no adverse effects on zebrafish. WGS data of B. velezensis FCW2 revealed a complete circular genome of 4,147,426 nucleotides and a GC content of 45.87%. We have identified 4059 coding sequence (CDS) genes that encode proteins involved in stress resistance, adhesion and micronutrient production. The genes responsible for producing secondary metabolites, exopolysaccharides, and other beneficial nutrients were identified. The KEGG and COG databases revealed that genes mainly involved amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate utilization, vitamin and cofactor metabolism, and biological adhesion. These findings suggest that B. velezensis FCW2 could be a putative probiotic in the development of fermented foods.

Genomic and metabolic properties of Staphylococcus gallinarum FCW1 MCC4687 isolated from naturally fermented coconut water towards GRAS assessment.

Staphylococcus gallinarum FCW1 was isolated from naturally fermented coconut-water and identified by biochemical and molecular methods. Probiotic characterization and safety assessment were conducted through a series of in vitro tests. A high survival rate was observed when the strain was tested for resistance to bile, lysozyme, simulated gastric and intestinal fluid, phenol, and different temperature and salt concentrations. The strain showed antagonism against some pathogens, was susceptible to all antibiotics tested except penicillin, and showed no hemolytic and DNase activity. Hydrophobicity, autoaggregation, biofilm formation, and antioxidation tests indicated that the strain possessed a high adhesive and antioxidant ability. Enzymatic activity was used to evaluate the metabolic capacities of the strain. In-vivo experiment on zebrafish was performed to check its safety status. The whole-genome sequencing indicated that the genome contained 2,880,305 bp with a GC content of 33.23%. The genome annotation confirmed the presence of probiotic-associated genes and genes for oxalate degradation, sulfate reduction, acetate metabolism, and ammonium transport in the FCW1 strain, adding to the theory that this strain may be helpful in treating kidney stones. This study revealed that the strain FCW1 might be an excellent potential probiotic in developing fermented coconut beverages and treating and preventing kidney stone disease.