Genomics and genetics of Thermotoga
Thermophilic bacteria may hold keys to a better life for humans. For example, strict anaerobic, hyperthermophilic bacteria Thermotoga are viewed by many as attractive candidates for producing biofuels and thermostable enzymes. They may also serve as a model system to study the origin of life because they are closely related to the last universal ancestor of all life forms on Earth, based on the analysis of their 16S rRNA. The early Earth was hot and had little oxygen, exactly where Thermotoga could make their home. However, due to their elusive life style, scientists know little about them, especially their molecular processes.
Our lab is dedicated to unlock the secrets of these organisms via various approaches. We have characterized a Type II restriction-modification system of Thermotoga (PMID:21918796), and we are the first group that isolated Thermotoga recombinant strains (BMC Biotechnology). We are continuously making exciting discoveries with these hot organisms. Stay tuned!