Genomic and biosynthetic diversification of Streptomyces bacteria from multiple bat species and caves

Streptomyces is source of most drugs and drug-precursors such as antibiotics, antifungals and other natural products. These secondary metabolites are produced during the stationary phase of their growth, and are usually isolated and purified from soil bacteria. Insectivorous bats inhabiting caves in North America are facing the deadly infectious fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causal agent of white-nose syndrome. Previous research has shown that Streptomyces bacteria colonizing the skin and fur surfaces of these insectivorous bats can inhibit the pathogenic fungus. Our study provide fundamental insights into the evolutionary history and adaptive potential of Streptomyces bacteria from bats as host, to understand the host-microbe interaction and boost the natural product discovery.