Exploring the distribution and co-occurrence of -like genes and nitrogen-cycling genes in water reservoir sediments.

Water reservoir sediments represent a distinct habitat that harbors diverse microbial resources crucial for nitrogen cycling processes. The discovery of resuscitation promoting factor (Rpf) has been recognized as a crucial development in understanding the potential of microbial populations. However, our understanding of the relationship between microorganisms containing -like genes and nitrogen-cycling functional populations remains limited. The present study explored the distribution patterns of -like genes and nitrogen-cycling genes in various water reservoir sediments, along with their correlation with environmental factors. Additionally, the co-occurrence of -like genes with genes associated with the nitrogen cycle and viable but non-culturable (VBNC) formation was investigated. The findings indicated the ubiquitous occurrence of Rpf-like domains and their related genes in the examined reservoir sediments. Notably, -like genes were predominantly associated with , , and , with pH emerging as the primary influencing factor for their distribution. Genera such as , , , and harbor the majority of nitrogen-cycling functional genes, particularly denitrification genes. The distribution of nitrogen-cycling microbial communities in the reservoir sediments was mainly influenced by pH and NH . Notably, correlation network analysis revealed close connections between microorganisms containing -like genes and nitrogen-cycling functional populations, as well as VBNC bacteria. These findings offer new insights into the prevalence of -like genes in the water reservoir sediments and their correlation with nitrogen-cycling microbial communities, enhancing our understanding of the significant potential of microbial nitrogen cycling.