Phylogenetic Investigation Of Lin Genes Involved In Degradation Of Hexachlorocyclohexane (Hch)

Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) is a non-degradable compound extensively used against agricultural pests and various public health programs for controlling mosquitoes. It imbibes into the food chain from crop to animals; biodegradable enzymes present in the genes of some bacteria degrade HCH in soil. Mainly, two genes linA and linB encode dehydrochlorinase and dehalogenase enzymes involved in degradation of HCH. Bioinformatics strategies were used to find other homologous genes and proteins, which can also degrade HCH present in various bacteria for controlling of pollution and offer clue to prevent its entry in the food chain. Total 38 nucleotides and 36 proteins sequences of linA and linB were used for constructing the phylogeny. In addition, analysis on culture dependent and culture independent bacteria were done, which might play a vital role in the degradation of the non-degradable compounds. These bacteria possibly will facilitate in the safety of soil pollution, improving fertility of the soil and prevent entry of HCH in the food chain.