Genomic Exploration of Bacillus thuringiensis MORWBS1.1, Candidate Biocontrol Agent, Predicts Genes for Biosynthesis of Zwittermicin, 4,5-DOPA Dioxygenase Extradiol, and Quercetin 2,3-Dioxygenase

Abstract

Many strains from Bacillus thuringiensis are known for their genomic robustness and antimicrobial potentials. As a result, the quest for their biotechnological applications, especially in the agroindustry (e.g., as biopesticides), has increased over the years. This study documents the genome sequencing and probing of a Fusarium antagonist (B.Thuringiensis strain MORWBS1.1) with possible biopesticidal metabolite producing capacity from South Africa. Based on in vitro evaluation and in silico antiSMASH investigation, B.Thuringiensis strain MORWBS1.1 exhibited distinctive genomic properties that could be further exploited for in planta and food additive production purposes.