What are the molecular bases of cyanobacteria adaptation to natural and anthropogenic factors?

• Grant number: 25/15613-5
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2030
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Organic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Camila Manoel Crnkovic
• Grantee: Camila Manoel Crnkovic
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Cyanobacteria thrive in diverse environments. They are a vital component in the carbon and nitrogen cycles of ecosystems. However, environmental factors can disrupt their growth and cause blooms, such as the case of the genus Trichodesmium. Cyanobacterial blooms impact ecosystems, economies, and health. Our hypothesis is that secondary metabolites are involved in the ecological adaptation of Trichodesmium. We will use omics-based strategies to analyze Trichodesmium growing in both natural and artificial blooms aiming to unveil what molecules are related to their adaptation to natural and anthropogenic factors. Metabolomics will be used to detect small molecules (metabolites), and genomics will be used to determine what genes are associated with their production. Results of this project can support ecological protection actions while also providing resources for the discovery of bioactive molecules. (AU)