Why in News?
Why in News? Thermophilic bacteria found in hot springs of Rajgir, Bihar, have shown potential as sources of powerful antibiotics, especially against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. A recent metagenomic study revealed a high presence of Actinobacteria, known for producing antimicrobial agents like streptomycin and tetracycline.
Key Concepts
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Thermophilic Bacteria | Heat-loving microorganisms that thrive in hot environments like springs and deep-sea vents |
| Actinobacteria | A group of bacteria known for producing antibiotics like streptomycin and tetracycline |
| Metagenomics | Study of genetic material from environmental samples without culturing |
| Diethyl Phthalate | Antibacterial compound found to inhibit Listeria monocytogenes |
| AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) | Resistance developed by microbes against antibiotics, creating a public health threat |
News Details
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | Hot springs of Rajgir, Bihar |
| Bacteria Focused | Actinobacteria (40–43% of identified species) |
| Key Finding | Compound “Diethyl Phthalate” inhibits Listeria monocytogenes |
| Method Used | 16S rRNA metagenomic analysis |
| Significance | Potential to combat antimicrobial resistance and support agriculture and biotech industries |
| Global Context | WHO warns AMR could cost USD 1 trillion by 2050 |
| Applications | Antimicrobials, PCR enzyme, plant growth promotion |
In a Nutshell (Memory Code: “H.E.A.T.S.”)
- H – Hot spring bacteria
- E – Extraction of diethyl phthalate
- A – Actinobacteria as antibiotic heroes
- T – Threat of AMR tackled
- S – Soil and plant growth potential
Prelims Practice Questions:
- Which of the following best describes Metagenomics?
a) Culturing microbes in a lab environment
b) Direct study of genetic material from environmental samples
c) Use of radioactive markers in DNA
d) Cross-breeding microbial strains - Diethyl phthalate extracted from Rajgir hot springs was effective against which of the following pathogens?
a) Salmonella typhi
b) Mycobacterium tuberculosis
c) Listeria monocytogenes
d) Escherichia coli - Which of the following is not true regarding thermophilic bacteria?
a) They thrive in high-temperature environments
b) They are commonly found in glaciers
c) They contribute to antibiotic production
d) They live in hot springs and deep-sea vents
Prelims Answers and Explanations
| Q. No | Correct Answer | Explanation |
| 1 | b | Metagenomics involves studying genetic material directly from environmental samples without culturing them. |
| 2 | c | Diethyl phthalate from Rajgir bacteria inhibited Listeria monocytogenes. |
| 3 | b | Thermophiles prefer heat; they are not found in cold environments like glaciers. |
