Multi-metal-resistant Staphylococcus warneri strain TWSL_1: revealing heavy metal-resistant genomic features by whole-genome sequencing and analysis

This study explores the genomic basis of heavy metal resistance in <i>Staphylococcus warneri</i> strain TWSL_1, isolated from industrial textile effluent. The strain exhibited strong resistance to Cd²⁺, Pb²⁺ and Cu²⁺, with MICs of 50, 1,200 and 75 mg l^-1, respectively. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a 2.66 Mb genome with 2,567 CDSs and a 99.81% average nucleotide identity to <i>S. warneri</i> WS479. Comparative genomic analysis at the genus level revealed that <i>S. warneri</i> strain TWSL_1 possesses a unique and expanded repertoire of heavy metal resistance genes, including the cadmium efflux system accessory protein and cadmium resistance protein, which are absent in pathogenic <i>Staphylococcus</i> sp. used for the comparison. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed its classification within <i>S. warneri</i>, with strong bootstrap support (100). Functional annotation highlighted metabolic versatility and stress response capabilities, supporting its adaptation to metal-rich environments. <i>S. warneri</i> TWSL_1 demonstrated high Pb²⁺ removal efficiency, reducing concentrations by over 70%. These findings highlight <i>S. warneri</i> TWSL_1 as a promising candidate for heavy metal bioremediation with potential applications in environmental detoxification and monitoring strategies.