<i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> heme metabolites biliverdin IXβ and IXδ are integral to lifestyle adaptations associated with chronic infection

The study explores the role of heme metabolites biliverdin IXβ and IXδ in the lifestyle adaptations of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, particularly in chronic infections affecting cystic fibrosis patients. These metabolites are crucial signaling molecules that influence behaviors such as motility and biofilm formation, essential for chronic infection. The research shows that strains lacking functional heme oxygenase exhibit defects in growth, motility, and biofilm formation, which can be partially rescued by adding biliverdin IXβ and IXδ. Proteomics and metabolomics analyses indicate significant changes in quorum sensing and virulence-related proteins, suggesting these metabolites are key in the pathogen's transition from a motile to a sessile lifestyle. The findings highlight the potential for developing new therapeutics targeting heme utilization and cooperative behaviors in P. aeruginosa.