Freshwater cyanobacteria
Dr. Kirti Nitnaware is an Assistant Professor at Hutatma Rajguru Mahavidyalaya, Rajgurunagar, Pune. She completed her master’s degree and pursued a Ph.D. on “Isolation and characterization of bioactive metabolites in cyanobacteria from Pune and adjoining region of Western Ghats” under Prof. T. D. Nikam at the Department of Botany, Savitribai Phule Pune University. She served as a JRF and SRF on a DAE-BRNS funded project and as a CSIR SRF at the same institute. After becoming an Assistant Professor, she continued her work on cyanobacteria and secured a research grant from the Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India, to develop an image retrieval system for cyanobacteria identification using a foldscope microscope.
This project, assisted by JRF fellow Mr. Kiran Raskar, involved a field survey across the Western Ghats region of Pune district. Over 108 cyanobacterial samples were collected, and 72 were identified using the foldscope, including a novel species, Pseudanabaena punensis, isolated from a drinking water pipeline in Pimpri-Chinchwad. She also collaborated with Dr. Gunvant Patil (Texas Tech University, USA) to explore the genomic architecture of this new species. Dr. Nitnaware actively promotes the use of foldscope in research by conducting workshops for students and academic staff. Her research continues to focus on the ecological and health implications of cyanobacteria.
How would you explain your paper’s key result to the non-scientific community?
Cyanobacteria, which appeared 3.5 billion years ago, are unique microorganisms capable of photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation. They contribute to oxygen production and are crucial for environmental stability. While many species are beneficial, some cyanobacteria can release toxins that harm humans, animals, and ecosystems. These toxins can degrade water quality, damage organs, and even block water supply systems.
To monitor these microorganisms, we used a paper-based microscope called a foldscope, invented by Dr. Manu Prakash (microcosmos.foldscope.com). It’s inexpensive, portable, and provides up to 140x magnification. Using it, we identified 72 cyanobacteria samples, including a novel species, P. punensis.
Whole-genome sequencing of P. punensis revealed genes related to toxin production, heavy metal resistance, and metabolite synthesis. While this species may have industrial applications, its presence in freshwater suggests possible risks to public health and the environment.
What are the possible consequences of these findings for your research area?
Cyanobacteria are promising sources of bioactive compounds, but some produce toxins harmful to public health. By studying their genomic data, we can understand and manage their growth. Our research on Pseudanabaena punensis, found in freshwater pipelines, provides detailed genomic data that can be used for further studies in water safety, biofuel potential, and environmental monitoring. We also found genes associated with heavy metal transport, indicating pollution in the Pavana river, the water source. This research highlights the need for continuous monitoring and potential biotechnological applications.
What was the exciting moment during your research?
The most exciting moment was receiving a DBT-funded project on cyanobacteria and using the foldscope microscope to explore microbial life. This opportunity allowed me to involve students in hands-on research and led to the discovery of Pseudanabaena punensis, named after Pune district. Acceptance of our work in the peer-reviewed journal Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution and recognition by my institution and DBT was deeply fulfilling.
What do you hope to do next?
Since this novel species was found in a drinking water pipeline, our next goal is to study its phytochemical profile and check for toxic metabolites. If harmful, we can inform the municipal authorities to implement control measures. With potential for secondary metabolite production, biofuel generation, and heavy metal absorption, we are continuing research on its biotechnological applications.
Where do you seek scientific inspiration?
I have studied cyanobacteria for over a decade, exploring their role in nitrogen fixation, metabolite production, and bacterial associations. The mentorship of Prof. T. D. Nikam, research funding from DBT, and collaboration with Dr. Gunvant Patil (Texas Tech University) inspired me to dive deeper into cyanobacterial genomics. These interactions encouraged me to explore novel ways of making basic research accessible and impactful.
How do you intend to help Indian Science improve?
I believe that improving Indian Science requires effective communication of scientific discoveries to students and the public. This increases awareness and changes perceptions about science. Despite limited infrastructure at undergraduate colleges, I aim to continue my research on cyanobacteria—combining basic science with public awareness and inspiration for future scientists.
Reference
Kirti M. Nitnaware, Kiran B. Raskar, Gaurav Agarwal, Ricardo A. Chávez Montes, Ratan Chopra, Damar L. López-Arredondo, Tukaram D. Nikam, Gunvant B. Patil. Whole-genome characterization and comparative genomics of a novel freshwater cyanobacteria species: Pseudanabaena punensis. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution, Volume 164, November 2021, 107272.
Edited by: Pragya Gupta
