Deep Sea Proteins

A Durham‑led research team has discovered new DNA‑associated enzymes from some of the planet’s most extreme environments — findings that could make rapid diagnostic tests faster, more sensitive, and more reliable.

The study, published in Nucleic Acids Research, builds on the work of the Virus X project, an EU‑funded collaboration which involved partners in Iceland, Norway and Poland. The project was led by Durham University’s Professor Ehmke Pohl, Director of the Biophysical Sciences Institute. Speaking about the project, Prof. Pohl said:

"This work highlights the enormous potential of bioprospecting from extreme habitats. The results are not only important for the bioeconomy, but they also provide the basis for all Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods in protein structure prediction and protein design."

Exploring Extreme Environments

 The project team analysed genetic material from extreme environments including Icelandic volcanic hot springs and deep-sea hydrothermal vents located more than two kilometres beneath the North Atlantic Ocean. These sites host microorganisms that have evolved highly specialised proteins to survive intense heat, low oxygen, and unusual chemical conditions.By using next-generation DNA sequencing, the researchers were able to create and search huge databases containing millions of genes and hundreds of novel enzymes.All sampling was carried out under strict environmental and ethical guidelines, working closely with local agencies to ensure that sensitive habitats were protected and that the benefits of the research are shared responsibly. 

High‑Stability Proteins with Unique Properties

Using next‑generation sequencing, the researchers built a database containing millions of genes and hundreds of previously uncharacterised enzymes. From this, they identified a new class of single‑stranded DNA‑binding (SSB) proteins with exceptional stability. 

Improving LAMP Diagnostics

One of the newly identified DNA-binding proteins was shown to improve loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) — a rapid method for detecting nucleic acids from viruses, bacteria or parasites without the need for complex laboratory equipment.These improvements made the tests faster and more sensitive, improving the detection of RNA from viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, as well as DNA from other infectious agents. 

Next Steps: Expanding the Enzyme Toolkit

The team is continuing to explore their gene library, with several new protein candidates now undergoing characterisation. Modified versions of these proteins are being designed, and new diagnostic tests are being developed including for neglected tropical diseases such as leishmaniasis and Chagas disease in collaboration with the Durham University Centre for Tropical Diseases. Work is also under way with the Norwegian biotechnology company ArcticZymes to explore commercial applications.