Version 2: Multi-Metal Resistant Staphylococcus warneri strain TWSL_1: Revealing Heavy Metal Resistant Genomic Features by Whole Genome Sequencing

This study explores the genomic basis of heavy metal resistance in Staphylococcus warneri strain TWSL_1, isolated from industrial textile effluent. The strain exhibited strong resistance to Cd²⁺, Pb²⁺, and Cu²⁺, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 50 mg/L, 1200 mg/L, and 75 mg/L, respectively. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a 2.66 Mb genome with 2,567 coding sequences and a 99.81% average nucleotide identity to S. warneri WS479. Comparative analysis identified key metal resistance genes, including cadmium efflux and cobalt-zinc-cadmium resistance proteins, absent in S. aureus RF122. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed its classification within S. warneri, with strong bootstrap support (100). Functional annotation highlighted metabolic versatility and stress response capabilities, supporting its adaptation to metal-rich environments. S. warneri TWSL_1 demonstrated high Pb²⁺ removal efficiency, reducing concentrations by over 70%, underscoring its bioremediation potential. These findings highlight S. warneri TWSL_1 as a promising candidate for heavy metal bioremediation, warranting further functional validation and application in environmental detoxification strategies.