Comparative analysis of the Pediococcus damnosus NIB 608 genome to identify genes related to stress and spoilage in beer.

Pediococcus damnosus NIB 608 was isolated from spoiled beer, and the genome was analyzed to identify genes related to stress and spoilage. Complete genome sequencing revealed a circular chromosome alongside three plasmids. Comparative genomic analysis of six P. damnosus strains revealed that the horA and horC clusters were present in several strains and indicated that these plasmid-encoded gene clusters play a role in hop resistance and maintenance of cell membrane structure. Pediococcus damnosus NIB 608 harbors various glycosyltransferase genes, many of which are associated with exopolysaccharide production and membrane-associated glycan synthesis. Notably, the fatty acid biosynthesis gene fabZ was absent, representing a metabolic limitation. Nevertheless, because exogenous fatty acids are present in beer, the strain remained viable as a beer spoilage organism. These findings indicate that P. damnosus strains have both shared and diverse genetic traits, highlighting the importance of considering genomic features alongside environmental conditions when assessing spoilage potential.