Microbes in mercury-contaminated soil have more genes related to stress response, moving substances across cell membranes, and phosphate metabolism compared to less contaminated soils.

Scientific Claim

Mercury-contaminated soils show enrichment of stress-response genes, membrane transporters, and phosphate metabolism pathways in microbial communities.

Original Statement

“Functional gene profiling showed enrichment of stress-response genes, membrane transporters, and phosphate metabolism pathways in contaminated soils.”

From study:A survey of bacterial and fungal community structure and functions in two long-term metalliferous soil habitats

Evidence Quality Assessment

Claim Status

appropriately stated

Study Design Support

Design supports claim

Appropriate Language Strength

association

Can only show association/correlation

Assessment Explanation

The claim describes observed enrichment of specific gene pathways without implying causation. 'Showed enrichment' appropriately describes the observed association.

Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

A survey of bacterial and fungal community structure and functions in two long-term metalliferous soil habitats

Cannot Determine

2025 Nov 25

Contradicting (0)

No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

A survey of bacterial and fungal community structure and functions in two long-term metalliferous soil habitats

Score: 8

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-25944-y

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