Oceanic viruses deployed in the fight against climate change

Scientists are leveraging vast genomic data to identify oceanic viruses with potential to combat climate change. By analysing DNA and RNA viruses, they can pinpoint those capable of trapping carbon dioxide in seawater and preventing methane release from thawing Arctic soil. Through genomic sequencing and the use of AI, researchers reveal viruses that "steal" carbon-processing genes, aiding in the development of models predicting viral impact on carbon metabolism. This research, presented at the recent American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) meeting, explores using viruses to engineer ocean microbiomes for enhanced carbon capture, potentially mitigating climate change effects. Additionally, efforts extend to employing viruses in geoengineering permafrost ecosystems, offering innovative solutions to environmental challenges. (Phys.org)