Intracellular proteome expression during 4-n-nonylphenol biodegradation by the filamentous fungus Metarhizium robertsii

• Fourteen 4-n-NP metabolites were identified.
• Degradation pathway of 4-n-NP was formulated.
• Conditions for proteome analysis were established on a base of biodegradation data.
• Basics of the proteomic background involved in 4-n-NP biodegradation is explained.
• PCA allowed the initial classification of unidentified proteins.

4-n-nonylphenol (4-n-NP) is an endocrine disrupting compound (EDC); pollutants that cause serious disturbances in the environment. This study shows the degradation pathway and initial proteome analysis in cultures of a fungus that actively degrades 4-n-NP, Metarhizium robertsii. The research revealed the presence of 14 4-n-NP metabolites formed as a result of the oxidation of the alkyl chain and benzene ring, which leads to the complete decomposition of the compound. Based on the trend and quantitative analysis of the formation of 4-n-NP derivatives, the best conditions for proteome analysis were established. The data collected allowed the formulation of an explanation of the microorganism's strategy towards the removal of 4-n-NP. The main groups of proteins engaged in the removal of the xenobiotic are: oxidation-reduction systems related to nitroreductase-like proteins, ROS defense systems (peroxiredoxin and superoxide dismutase), the TCA cycle and energy-related systems. Principal components analysis was applied to unidentified proteins, resulting in the formulation of three subgroups and initial classification of these proteins.

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