Molecular response of Physarum melleum GZ381 to anatase TiO2 nanoparticles

Environmental contamination caused by nano-sized anatase TiO2 (nTiO2-A) is an emerging concern. This project investigates the molecular responses of Physarum melleum GZ381, a strain capable of tolerating approximately 30 nm nTiO2-A stress. Using transcriptomics, small RNA and circular RNA sequencing, combined with genetic and physiological analysis, we characterized its metabolic adaptations. The strain was found to utilize a ceRNA regulatory mechanism involving circRNA08121 to enhance stress resistance. These findings may support future strategies to mitigate nTiO2-A pollution and improve our understanding of microbial tolerance mechanisms in polluted environments.