Screening, characterization, and phylogenetic analysis of Methioninase-Producing Indigenous Streptomyces spp. Isolated from the Upper Lake of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India

Methioninase, an enzyme with potential for cancer treatment, catalyzes the degradation of methionine, which supports tumor growth and metastasis. Streptomyces species, known for their secondary metabolite production, are prime candidates for methioninase production. This study aimed to isolate and screen indigenous Streptomyces strains from aquatic environments around the Upper Lake of Bhopal, India, to identify those with methioninase activity. Samples were collected from five locations, and Streptomyces spp. were isolated using starch casein agar and screened with a phenol red-based assay for methioninase production. Seven out of 20 isolates exhibited positive methioninase activity. Molecular identification through 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed the identity of these isolates, revealing genetic diversity among the methioninase-producing strains. Phylogenetic analysis further supported the distinctiveness of these strains. The study emphasizes the promising potential of these isolates for enzyme-based cancer therapies and contributes to bioprospecting efforts for novel therapeutic agents. The isolated Streptomyces spp. from the Upper Lake of Bhopal exhibit potent methioninase activity, highlighting their potential for enzyme therapy, particularly in cancer treatment. The molecular characterization of these isolates provides a foundation for further research into optimizing methioninase production. These findings contribute significantly to the growing interest in microbial enzymes as therapeutic agents, particularly in the context of cancer therapy.