Comparative genomics analysis of genus Leuconostoc resolves its taxonomy and elucidates its biotechnological importance

Genus Leuconostoc consists of a diverse range of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from dairy, food and environmental ecology. Even though the species of Leuconostoc are commercially significant, their taxonomy is largely based on old, low-resolution classical methods. Several taxonomic reclassifications in the past were inadequate for microbiologist and food industry professionals to demarcate any new strain of genus Leuconostoc. The current taxonomy of the genus is largely based on classical approaches, which are in utmost need of reinvestigation by whole genome-based approaches. In the present study, the taxono-phylogenomic analysis depicted sixteen species, including three novel genomospecies and several reshufflings across the species, namely, L. mesenteroides, L. pseudomesenteroides, L. gelidum and L. lactis. Genus-wide T3PKS, CAZymes, and vector plasmids supports its biotechnological potential. However, detection of the antibiotic resistance genes in such an important LAB genus raises concern over their utility in industry. Present, large-scale in-depth genome-based study can shed light on the genome dynamics of the member species, help to obtain a more robust taxonomy and elucidate its biotechnology importance.

Automated summary

Genus Leuconostoc is a diverse group of lactic acid bacteria from dairy, food, and environmental sources. The current taxonomy of this genus is based on outdated methods and needs to be reevaluated using whole genome-based approaches. This study identified sixteen species, including three novel genomospecies, and revealed their biotechnological potential. However, the presence of antibiotic resistance genes in this important LAB genus raises concerns about their use in the industry.