Biocontrol Potentials of Bacillus Species: A Focus on the Emerging Bacillus nakamurai

The genus Bacillus includes a diverse range of Gram-positive, spore-forming bacteria, recognized for their ability to produce a variety of bioactive compounds with antimicrobial properties. There are many studies indicating the application of these compounds as alternatives in sustainable agriculture practices. The scientific and medical community face an alarming threat on account of the increase in antimicrobial resistance among bacteria and fungi. Natural antimicrobial peptides from Bacillus species can be a promising alternative for antibiotics and hence a potential treatment for infectious diseases caused by multidrug-resistant microorganisms. This review highlights research on the potential of Bacillus species as viable sources of environmentally friendly biocontrol agents. The newly identified member in the genus, Bacillus nakamurai, is a soil saprophyte. Recent research has revealed its ability to produce a diverse range of secondary metabolites, including non-ribosomal peptides like surfactin and bacillaene, as well as ribosomally synthesized peptides such as plantazolicin. These metabolites exhibit strong activity against various bacterial and fungal pathogens, positioning B. nakamurai as a promising biocontrol agent for agriculture. A comparative genomic analysis of five sequenced B. nakamurai strains revealed that non-ribosomal products dominate the species’ core metabolome, while ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) are more unique to individual strains. This review proposes the need for exploring the antimicrobial capabilities of B. nakamurai and enhances its role in biocontrol strategies for both clinical and agricultural applications.

⓿ The genus Bacillus produces diverse bioactive compounds with antimicrobial properties, offering sustainable solutions in agriculture.

⓿ Antimicrobial peptides from Bacillus species serve as promising alternatives to combat multidrug- resistant pathogens.

⓿ Bacillus nakamurai, a newly identified soil saprophyte, synthesizes non-ribosomal peptides like surfactin and bacillaene, along with ribosomally synthesized peptides such as plantazolicin.

⓿ Comparative genomic analysis of B. nakamurai strains reveals the dominance of non-ribosomal peptides in the core metabolome and unique ribosomally synthesized peptides (RiPPs) among strains.

⓿ B. nakamurai shows potential as an effective biocontrol agent, emphasizing its relevance in clinical and agricultural applications.

⓿ The study underscores the need for further research on B. nakamurai’s antimicrobial capabilities and its role in sustainable biocontrol strategies.