Biology subjects

Venkateswaran, K.

Publications and source records attributed to Venkateswaran, K..

13 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2026

Differential efficiency of sampling devices in the measurement of microbial diversity of Yellowstone National Park hot springs

Metagenomic characterization of low-biomass Yellowstone National Park (YNP) hot spring waters remains challenging because microbial recovery is influenced by filtration methodology, sample preservation, DNA extraction, and sequencing strategy. We characterized thermophilic microbial communities in alkaline YNP hot spring waters (62-90.5{degrees}C) using three high-temperature-compatible filtration systems (Sterivex, Supor, and polycarbonate membranes), automated onsite DNA extraction ({micro}Titan), and shotgun metagenomic sequencing with Illumina short-read and Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) long-read platforms. Across all filtration systems and sequencing workflows, microbial communities were consistently dominated by Bacteria ([~]90% of reads), whereas Archaea represented <10% of recovered sequences. Dominant microbial populations were reproducibly recovered across all approaches; however, recovery of lower-abundance taxa varied among methods. This variability was most evident in polycarbonate-filtered samples, which exhibited greater replicate-to-replicate variation and less consistent detection of microbial species. Thermocrinis ruber and related Aquificae-associated thermophiles dominated the hottest waters (78.5-90.5{degrees}C), whereas warmer effluent-channel waters (63.5-66.5{degrees}C) contained T. ruber together with photosynthetic taxa, including Synechococcus spp. and Candidatus Thermochlorobacter aerophilum. Archaeal communities were primarily represented by Pyrobaculum- and Thermoproteus-related taxa. Non-metric multidimensional scaling analyses indicated that overall community structure was largely unaffected by filtration or sequencing methodology, whereas alpha-diversity metrics showed that filter selection influenced richness and diversity estimates. These findings identify field-deployable workflows for metagenomic characterization of low-biomass thermophilic aquatic systems and demonstrate the importance of integrating filtration and sequencing strategies for studying extremophile microbiomes under remote sampling conditions. IMPORTANCEAccurate characterization of low-biomass geothermal water microbiomes remains challenging because microbial recovery is strongly influenced by sample handling, filtration efficiency, DNA extraction chemistry, and sequencing methodology. This study demonstrated that Yellowstone National Park alkaline hot spring water microbiomes were consistently dominated by Bacteria (>90% of recovered reads), whereas Archaea represented <10% of community abundance across all filtration systems. Although dominant microbial populations were reproducibly recovered, filtration-device selection influenced the recovery of microbial diversity and low-abundance taxa. By integrating field-deployable onsite DNA extraction with ONT shotgun metagenomic sequencing, this work evaluates practical workflows for studying thermophilic planktonic microbial communities under remote field conditions. These findings are relevant, not only to geothermal microbiology, but also to low-biomass environments in medical, pharmaceutical, and aerospace industries, where rapid onsite processing and contamination-aware workflows are essential for preserving authentic microbial signatures in extreme environments.

ecology↗

bioRxiv2025

Spatiotemporal Microbial Ecoevolutionary Dynamics on the International Space Station

This study presents the most comprehensive spatiotemporal analysis of the ISS microbiome to date. Over a seven-year period, 184 surface samples were collected for live/dead metagenomic profiling, phenotypic characterization of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence among 102 cultured isolates, and metagenome-assembled genome (MAG) analysis to evaluate evolutionary selection pressures. Despite ecological stability, comparative genomics revealed ongoing microevolution through lateral gene transfer and selection for traits (e.g., radiation resistance and biocide tolerance). Importantly, predictions of AMR and virulence frequently misaligned with experimental outcomes, underscoring the need for functional validation. This dataset highlights a stable core microbiome that persists across years, punctuated by localized adaptation and gene flow. The ISS microbiome exemplifies both ecological resilience and microevolutionary innovation that can inform risk management for long-duration spaceflight.

microbiology↗

bioRxiv2025

Survival of NASA-cleanroom microbial isolates under simulated space and Martian conditions

Planetary protection hinges on understanding microbial survival following sterilization procedures, the stressors of space travel, and exposure to extraterrestrial environmental conditions. This study identified 23 fungal strains isolated from NASA-spacecraft assembly cleanrooms, capable of surviving ultraviolet radiation exposure. Using experimental simulation facilities, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of microbial survivability and morphology on the most resilient spacecraft-associated microorganisms. Aspergillus calidoustus demonstrated remarkable survival under simulated Martian conditions, withstanding up to 1440 minutes of Martian solar irradiation, Mars atmospheric pressure and composition, and the presence of Martian regolith. Lethality only occurred under combined irradiation and cooling to -60{degrees}C (the mean Mars surface temperature), emphasising the synergistic effect of these conditions. Furthermore, A. calidoustus survived long-duration neutron radiation exposure (replicating ionizing space radiation doses) and dry-heat sterilization (typically used for spacecraft components). This is the first study to perform an end-to-end evaluation of eukaryotic microbial survival across conditions that occur during preparation for, travel to, and robotic exploration of Mars. The experimental facilities and chronic exposure methods utilized offer a biologically meaningful model for understanding microbial risks during long-duration space missions. The capacity for fungal conidia to survive multiple space-relevant conditions suggests their potential as forward contaminants, capable of being transported to and persisting on Mars. As current spacecraft sterilization protocols prioritize bacterial spores, this research highlights a critical gap in planetary protection strategies. In addition to offering novel insights into microbial survival and dispersal, these findings have broader implications for biocontamination within the food, pharmaceutical, and medical sectors. ImportanceThis study reveals that conidia / spores of a fungus Aspergillus calidoustus, which was isolated from spacecraft assembly cleanrooms, can survive simulated space-relevant stressors like ultraviolet irradiation, Martian cold atmospheric pressure, regolith exposure, ionizing radiation and specific doses of recommended dry heat sterilization for spacecrafts. Such fungal resilience demonstrates that the species can survive certain space and Mars conditions previously thought to be sterilizing, highlighting a need to revise current spacecraft decontamination standards that focus mainly on bacterial spores. This study also highlights the need for continued microbial monitoring of spacecrafts during transit from Earth to other planets not only to achieve goals of planetary protection but also to maintain healthy closed system for manned missions. Moreover, it is also alarming for an Earth origin fungal species due to biocontamination risks for food, medical, and pharmaceutical industries may require need for new standards of sterilization approaches transferable to space exploration.

microbiology↗

bioRxiv2025

Plasmidome, resistome, and virulence-associated genes characterization of Acinetobacter johnsonii in NASA cleanrooms and a clinical setting.

Evidence shows persistence of non-spore-forming Acinetobacter johnsonii in high-stakes controlled and nutrient-limited environments. This study aims to explore the mechanisms underpinning such adaptability through a comprehensive genomic analysis of 22 isolates of A. johnsonii from NASAs Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF) and one carbapenem-resistant strain (E154408A) from patient colonization in Ireland. Core-genome phylogeny revealed clustering of PHSF-originating isolates in a monophyletic clade divergent from the main species lineage. Species-wide virulence-associated genes and metabolic profiling indicated the unique presence in PHSF-originating isolates of two complete efflux pumps and of a conserved allantoin racemase, suggesting adaptability for multiple environmental stresses. Observed ubiquity of blaOXA in investigated genomes (n=112) and phenotypically-validated multidrug-resistant profile of E154408A strain highlight A. johnsoniis potential as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) reservoir. Plasmidome analysis suggested gain/loss events across the monophyletic population and potential AMR acquisition pathways. Genome-to-metagenome mapping identified genomic signatures of A. johnsonii in PHSF >10 years post initial isolation. ImportanceAcinetobacter johnsonii is increasingly recognized as an emerging human pathogen, with growing evidence of its ability to persist in controlled, high-stakes environments, posing risks as both persisting environmental contaminant and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) reservoir. Yet, gaps remain in our understanding of its AMR profile and the mechanisms that enable its enhanced environmental adaptability. This knowledge is necessary in contexts where biological cleanliness is a priority such as clinical settings and spacecraft assembly facilities cleanrooms, where contamination of hardware with terrestrial microorganisms is concerning. In this study, we aim to address some of key knowledge gaps by providing genomic insights into a rare multi-drug resistant clinical isolate and 22 NASA cleanroom isolates that persisted for over a decade in extremely clean conditions. Our findings will help evaluate the contamination risk of A. johnsonii in high-stakes environments and ultimately strengthen our ability to manage this microbial contaminant across terrestrial and extraterrestrial settings. HighlightsO_LICleanrooms-derived A. johnsonii genomes show favorable traits for increased adaptability C_LIO_LIGenomic signatures of A. johnsonii persisted in the cleanrooms for >10 years C_LIO_LIblaOXA is ubiquitously found in the genome of all A. johnsonii C_LIO_LIE154408A is the first patient colonization by carbapenem-resistant A. johnsonii in Europe C_LI

genomics↗

bioRxiv2025

Unveiling Hidden Microbial Diversity in Mars2020 Mission Assembly Cleanrooms withMolecular Insights into the Persistent andPerseverance of Novel Species DefyingMetagenome Sequencing

NASA cleanrooms, where space mission components are assembled, maintain stringent cleaning protocols and nutrient-poor environments, resulting in low yet persistent microbial loads. Although these oligotrophic extremophiles are reported in small numbers, their resistance to environmental stresses, sparse presence, and difficulty in extracting biomolecules often lead to their omission, even with advanced sequencing technologies. Traditional metagenomic approaches fail to detect these rare species due to challenges in lysing robust microbial cells and isolating minute amounts of DNA from dominant microorganisms. Additionally, the absence of database references for novel extremophiles limits their identification. Over a six month period of monitoring Mars 2020 mission cleanrooms, 182 bacterial strains from 19 families were identified using advanced molecular techniques. This included 14 novel Gram-positive species, eight of which were spore-formers. Despite being present at only about 0.001% abundance in metagenomic sequencing data, they were successfully cultured. Functional studies revealed their capabilities in nitrogen cycling, carbohydrate metabolism, and radiation resistance. Furthermore, 12 biosynthetic gene clusters, including those linked to ectoine and{varepsilon} -poly-L-lysine production, underscore their biotechnological potential. These findings emphasize the hidden microbial diversity in spacecraft assembly cleanrooms and highlight the need for advanced detection methods to uncover extremophiles with potential applications in biotechnology and space exploration. SynopsisUnderstanding extremophiles in NASA spacecraft assembly cleanrooms aids contaminant management in confined habitats, ensuring sustainability and safety in future space missions.

genomics↗

bioRxiv2023

Adaptation to space conditions of novel bacterial species isolated from the International Space Station revealed by functional gene annotations and comparative genome analysis

BackgroundThe extreme environment of the International Space Station (ISS) puts selective pressure on microorganisms unintentionally introduced during its 20+ years of service as a low-orbit science platform and human habitat. Such pressure leads to the development of new features not found in the Earth-bound relatives, which enable them to adapt to unfavorable conditions. ResultsIn this study, we generated the functional annotation of the genomes of five newly identified species of Gram-positive bacteria, four of which are non-spore-forming and one spore-forming, all isolated from the ISS. Using a deep-learning based tool - deepFRI - we were able to functionally annotate close to 100% of protein-coding genes in all studied species, overcoming other annotation tools. Our comparative genomic analysis highlights common characteristics across all five species and specific genetic traits that appear unique to these ISS microorganisms. Proteome analysis mirrored these genomic patterns, revealing similar traits. The collective annotations suggest adaptations to life in space, including the management of hypoosmotic stress related to microgravity via mechanosensitive channel proteins, increased DNA repair activity to counteract heightened radiation exposure, and the presence of mobile genetic elements enhancing metabolism. In addition, our findings suggest the evolution of certain genetic traits indicative of potential pathogenic capabilities, such as small molecule and peptide synthesis and ATP-dependent transporters. These traits, exclusive to the ISS microorganisms, further substantiate previous reports explaining why microbes exposed to space conditions demonstrate enhanced antibiotic resistance and pathogenicity. ConclusionOur findings indicate that the microorganisms isolated from ISS we studied have adapted to life in space. Evidence such as mechanosensitive channel proteins, increased DNA repair activity, as well as metallopeptidases and novel S-layer oxidoreductases suggest a convergent adaptation among these diverse microorganisms, potentially complementing one another within the context of the microbiome. The common genes that facilitate adaptation to the ISS environment may enable bioproduction of essential biomolecules need during future space missions, or serve as potential drug targets, if these microorganisms pose health risks.

bioinformatics↗

bioRxiv2023

Genomic, Functional, and Metabolic Enhancements in Multidrug-Resistant Enterobacter bugandensis Facilitating its Persistence and Succession in the International Space Station

BackgroundThe International Space Station (ISS) stands as a testament to human achievement in space exploration. Despite its highly controlled environment, characterised by microgravity, increased CO2 levels, and elevated solar radiation, microorganisms occupy a unique niche. These microbial inhabitants play a significant role in influencing the health and well-being of astronauts on board. One microorganism of particular interest in our study is Enterobacter bugandensis, primarily found in clinical specimens including the human gastrointestinal tract, and also reported to possess pathogenic traits, leading to a plethora of infections. ResultsDistinct from their Earth counterparts, ISS E. bugandensis strains have exhibited resistance mechanisms that categorize them within the ESKAPE pathogen group, a collection of pathogens recognized for their formidable resistance to antimicrobial treatments. During the two-year Microbial Tracking 1 mission, 12 strains of multidrug resistant E. bugandensis were isolated from various locations within the ISS. We have carried out a comprehensive study to understand the genomic intricacies of ISS-derived E. bugandensis in comparison to terrestrial strains, with a keen focus on those associated with clinical infections. We unravel the evolutionary trajectories of pivotal genes, especially those contributing to functional adaptations and potential antimicrobial resistance. A hypothesis central to our study was that the singular nature of the stresses of the space environment, distinct from any on Earth, could be driving these genomic adaptations. Extending our investigation, we meticulously mapped the prevalence and distribution of E. bugandensis across the ISS over time. This temporal analysis provided insights into the persistence, succession, and potential patterns of colonization of E. bugandensis in space. Furthermore, by leveraging advanced analytical techniques, including metabolic modelling, we delved into the coexisting microbial communities alongside E. bugandensis in the ISS across multiple missions and spatial locations. This exploration revealed intricate microbial interactions, offering a window into the microbial ecosystem dynamics within the ISS. ConclusionsOur comprehensive analysis illuminated not only the ways these interactions sculpt microbial diversity but also the factors that might contribute to the potential dominance and succession of E. bugandensis within the ISS environment. The implications of these findings are two-fold. Firstly, they shed light on microbial behavior, adaptation, and evolution in extreme, isolated environments. Secondly, they underscore the need for robust preventive measures, ensuring the health and safety of astronauts by mitigating risks associated with potential pathogenic threats.

systems biology↗

bioRxiv2023

Genomic analysis reveals the presence of emerging pathogenic Klebsiella lineages aboard the International Space Station.

Klebsiella species, including Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella aerogenes, and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae, are opportunistic pathogens that are known to cause infections in humans. Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKP) is a subgroup of K. pneumoniae that has gained attention due to its global dissemination and its ability to cause invasive infections in community settings amongst immunocompetent individuals as well as its increasing levels of antibiotic resistance. Our study reports the first complete genotypic analysis including mobile genetic elements (MGEs) of Klebsiella isolates from the International Space Station (ISS). The genomes of K. pneumoniae, K. aerogenes, and K. quasipneumoniae provided valuable insights into their antimicrobial resistance, virulence, thermotolerance, disinfectant resistance, and MGEs. All isolates belonged to emerging lineages with pathogenic potential, with K. quasipneumoniae ST138 presenting spatial and temporal persistence aboard the ISS, possibly due to its genotypic profile encoding for numerous resistance genes to disinfectants and heavy metals. We also report on the isolation of a yersiniabactin encoding K. pneumoniae, belonging to the emerging high-risk ST101 clone, aboard the ISS. Potential dissemination of hvKp strains on ISS could pose a putative risk to the immunocompromised crew. The presence of MGEs containing virulent loci could facilitate horizontal gene transfer to other benign microorganisms on the ISS, potentially increasing their virulence. In addition, genetic divergence from their respective lineages for some Klebsiella genomes was predicted and hypothesized to be due to the unique spaceflight environmental pressures. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring problematic microbial communities in space to understand their surviving abilities and potential impact on human health. ImportanceThe International Space Station (ISS) is a unique hermetically sealed environment that poses environmental pressures not encountered on Earth, including microgravity and radiation While the adaptability of bacteria during spaceflight is not fully understood, recent research has suggested that it may be species and even clone specific. Given the spaceflight-induced suppression of the human immune system, it is essential to understand the genomics of potential human pathogens in spaceflight. Such understanding could provide valuable insights into species and lineages of medical astromicrobiological importance. Here, we used hybrid assembly approaches and comparative genomics to provide the first comprehensive genomic characterisation of 10 Klebsiella isolates retrieved from the ISS. Our findings revealed that K. quasipneumoniae ST138 exhibits spatial and temporal persistence aboard the ISS, with evidence of genomic divergence from the ST138 lineage on Earth. Additionally, we characterized plasmids from Klebsiella species of ISS origin, which encoded disinfectant and thermoresistance genes suggesting that these might aid adaptability. Furthermore, we identified an MGE containing a hypervirulence-associated locus belonging to a Klebsiella pneumoniae isolate of the "high risk" ST101 clone. Our work provides valuable insights into the adaptability and persistence of Klebsiella species during spaceflight, highlighting the importance of understanding the behaviour of potential pathogenic bacteria in space.

microbiology↗

bioRxiv2022

Machine learning algorithm to characterize antimicrobial resistance associated with the International Space Station surface microbiome

BackgroundAntimicrobial Resistance (AMR) has a detrimental impact on human health on Earth and it is equally concerning in other environments such as space due to microgravity, radiation and confinement, especially for long-distance space travel. The International Space Station (ISS) is ideal for investigating microbial diversity and virulence. The shotgun metagenomics data of the ISS generated during the Microbial Tracking - 1 (MT-1) project and resulting metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) across three flights in eight different locations during 12 months were used in this study. The objective of this study was to identify the AMR genes associated with whole genomes of 227 cultivable strains, 21 shotgun metagenome sequences, and 24 MAGs retrieved from the ISS environmental samples that were treated with propidium monoazide (PMA; viable microbes). ResultsWe have analyzed the data using a deep learning model, allowing us to go beyond traditional cut-offs based only on high DNA sequence similarity and extending the catalog of AMR genes. Our results in PMA treated samples revealed AMR dominance in the last flight for Kalamiella piersonii, a bacteria related to urinary tract infection in humans. The analysis of 227 pure strains isolated from the MT-1 project revealed hundreds of antibiotic resistance genes from many isolates, including two top-ranking species that corresponded to strains of Enterobacter bugandensis and Bacillus cereus. Computational predictions were experimentally validated by antibiotic resistance profiles in these two species, showing a high degree of concordance. Specifically, disc assay data confirmed the high resistance of these two pathogens to various beta-lactam antibiotics. ConclusionOverall, our computational predictions and validation analyses demonstrate the advantages of machine learning to uncover concealed AMR determinants in metagenomics datasets, expanding the understanding of the ISS environmental microbiomes and their pathogenic potential in humans.

bioinformatics↗

bioRxiv2021

Metabolic modeling of the International Space Station microbiome reveals key microbial interactions

BackgroundRecent studies have provided insights into the persistence and succession of microbes aboard the International Space Station (ISS), notably the dominance of Klebsiella pneumoniae. However, the interactions between the various microbes aboard the ISS, and how it shapes the microbiome remain to be clearly understood. In this study, we apply a computational approach to predict possible metabolic interactions in the ISS microbiome and shed further light on its organization. ResultsThrough a combination of a systems-based graph-theoretical approach, and a constraint-based community metabolic modelling approach, we demonstrated several key interactions in the ISS microbiome. These complementary approaches provided insights into the metabolic interactions and dependencies present amongst various microbes in a community, highlighting key interactions and keystone species. Our results showed that the presence of K. pneumoniae is beneficial to many other microorganisms it coexists with, notably those from the Pantoea genus. Species belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family were often found to be the most beneficial for the survival of other microorganisms in the ISS microbiome. However, K. pneumoniae was found to exhibit parasitic and amensalistic interactions with Aspergillus and Penicillium species, respectively. To prove this metabolic prediction, K. pneumoniae and Aspergillus fumigatus were co-cultured under normal and simulated microgravity, where K. pneumoniae cells showed parasitic characteristics to the fungus. The electron micrography revealed that the presence of K. pneumoniae compromised the morphology of fungal conidia and its biofilm biofilm-forming structures. ConclusionsOur study underscores the importance of K. pneumoniae in the ISS, and its potential contribution to the survival (mutualism) and eradication (parasitism) of other microbes, including potential pathogens. This integrated modelling approach, combined with experiments, demonstrates immense potential for understanding the organization of other such microbiomes, unravelling key organisms and their interdependencies.

systems biology↗

bioRxiv2020

Genetic Evidence for Selective Transfer of Microbes Between the International Space Station and an Astronaut

Microbial transfer from the environment can influence a persons health, but relevant studies often have confounding variables and short durations. Here, we used the unique environment of the International Space Station (ISS) to track movement of microbes between an astronauts commensal microbiomes and their environment. We identified several microbial taxa, including Serratia proteamaculans and Rickettsia australis which appear to have been transferred from the ISS to the commensal microbiomes of the astronaut. Strains were matched at the SNP and haplotype-level, and notably some strains persisted even after the astronauts return to Earth. Some transferred taxa correspond to secondary strains in the ISS environment, suggesting that transfer may be mediated by evolutionary selection. Finally, we show evidence that the T-Cell repertoire of the astronaut changes to become more specific to environmental taxa, suggesting that continual microbial and immune monitoring can help guide spaceflight mission planning, health monitoring, and habitat design.

microbiology↗

bioRxiv2018

Bacillus safensis FO-36b and Bacillus pumilus SAFR-032: A Whole Genome Comparison of Two Spacecraft Assembly Facility Isolates

BackgroundBacillus strains producing highly resistant spores have been isolated from cleanrooms and space craft assembly facilities. Organisms that can survive such conditions merit planetary protection concern and if that resistance can be transferred to other organisms, a health concern too. To further efforts to understand these resistances, the complete genome of Bacillus safensis strain FO-36b, which produces spore resistant to peroxide and radiation was determined. The genome was compared to the complete genome of B. pumilus SAFR-032, as well as draft genomes of B. safensis JPL-MERTA-8-2 and the type strain B. pumilus ATCC7061T. In addition, comparisons were made to 61 draft genomes that have been mostly identified as strains of B. pumilus or B. safensis.\n\nResultsThe FO-36b gene order is essentially the same as that in SAFR-032 and other B. pumilus strains [1]. The annotated genome has 3850 open reading frames and 40 noncoding RNAs and riboswitches. Of these, 307 are not shared by SAFR-032, and 65 are also not shared by either MERTA or ATCC7061T. The FO-36b genome was found to have ten unique reading frames and two phage-like regions, which have homology with the Bacillus bacteriophage SPP1 (NC_004166) and Brevibacillus phage Jimmer1 (NC_029104). Differing remnants of the Jimmer1 phage are found in essentially all safensis/pumilus strains. Seven unique genes are part of these phage elements. Comparison of gyrA sequences from FO-36b, SAFR-032, ATCC7061T, and 61 other draft genomes separate the various strains into three distinct clusters. Two of these are subgroups of B. pumilus while the other houses all the B. safensis strains.\n\nConclusionsIt is not immediately obvious that the presence or absence of any specific gene or combination of genes is responsible for the variations in resistance seen. It is quite possible that distinctions in gene regulation can change the level of expression of key proteins thereby changing the organisms resistance properties without gain or loss of a particular gene. What is clear is that phage elements contribute significantly to genome variability. The larger comparison of multiple strains indicates that many strains named as B. pumilus actually belong to the B. safensis group.

genomics↗

bioRxiv2017

MetaRiPPquest: A Peptidogenomics Approach for the Discovery of Ribosomally Synthesized and Post-translationally Modified Peptides

Ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) are an important class of natural products that include many antibiotics and a variety of other bioactive compounds. While recent breakthroughs in RiPP discovery raised the challenge of developing new algorithms for their analysis, peptidogenomic-based identification of RiPPs by combining genome/metagenome mining with analysis of tandem mass spectra remains an open problem. We present here MetaRiPPquest, a software tool for addressing this challenge that is compatible with large-scale screening platforms for natural product discovery. After searching millions of spectra in the Global Natural Products Social (GNPS) molecular networking infrastructure against just six genomic and metagenomic datasets, MetaRiPPquest identified 27 known and discovered 5 novel RiPP natural products.

bioinformatics↗