Breccia Pipe U Claim Borehole WT-29A subsurface metagenome. subsurface metagenome

In this project, we will investigate the metagenome of WT-29A well water, an exploratory well drilled into a uranium-containing breccia pipe for prospecting purposes, at a depth of 405 meters below land surface. Our current knowledge of the microbial ecology and diversity of this site is limited to insights gained by molecular microbial community surveys generated by Illumina iTag sequencing technology. Metagenomic analysis of this sample will allow us to further characterize the ecological drivers of this unique environment by assessing the genetic adaptations microorganisms have developed to withstand and possibly take advantage of high-radiation natural environments. Understanding these adaptations, and identifying metabolic pathways, will allow for guided cultivation of a, to date neglected, class of ‘intraterrestrials,’ and will further our understanding of a uniquely-subsurface habitat. PIs Joshua Sackett and Duane Moser.