Mechanism of lead resistance in Wickerhamomyces anomalus: Insights from whole genome sequencing

Lead contamination in air, water, and soil has infiltrated foods and feeds, posing severe health risks to humans and animals and remaining a tough challenge. Yeast is a safe and efficient biosorbent for lead removal. This study explored W. anomalus QF-11 lead resistance via whole-genome sequencing, finding it tolerates up to 7000 mg/L Pb²⁺. Under 4000 mg/L Pb²⁺ stress, it enhances resistance by scavenging ROS, increasing soluble protein, boosting SOD, POD and CAT activities, and elevating glutathione and trehalose levels. Its genome annotates 63 ABC transporters and antioxidant genes involved in lead adsorption, transportation and compartmentalization, with SODC, SODM, VAN1, TSL1 and others significantly upregulated. This study provides a theoretical basis for W. anomalus QF-11 application as a Pb²⁺ biosorbent and data support for novel heavy metal adsorbent development.