Genome sequence of Yersinia pestis KIM

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Wen Deng1, Valerie Burland, Guy Plunkett

  • 1Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, USA.

Journal of Bacteriology
|July 27, 2002
PubMed

Insights

The complete genome sequence of Yersinia pestis KIM, responsible for plague, was determined. This analysis revealed significant genome rearrangement compared to related strains, highlighting differences in pathogenicity genes.

Area of Science:

  • Genomics
  • Microbiology
  • Pathogen Evolution

Background:

  • Yersinia pestis is the causative agent of plague, a devastating zoonotic disease.
  • The KIM strain, biovar Mediaevalis, is historically significant, linked to the second pandemic, including the Black Death.
  • Understanding the genomic basis of Y. pestis virulence is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present the complete genome sequence of Yersinia pestis KIM.
  • To compare the KIM genome with other Y. pestis strains and Escherichia coli K-12 to understand genomic evolution and identify virulence factors.
  • To elucidate the genetic basis of Y. pestis pathogenicity.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of Yersinia pestis KIM.
  • Comparative genomics analysis comparing KIM with Y. pestis CO92 and Escherichia coli K-12.
  • Identification and characterization of open reading frames (ORFs) and genomic islands.

Main Results:

  • The 4.6-Mb KIM genome contains 4,198 ORFs, sharing similarities in replication genes with E. coli K-12.
  • Significant genome rearrangement, primarily inversions at insertion sequences, was observed between KIM and Y. pestis CO92.
  • Comparative analysis revealed conserved "backbone" synteny with E. coli K-12, with approximately 54% shared protein similarity, but also identified KIM-specific genes encoding putative pathogenicity factors.

Conclusions:

  • The Yersinia pestis KIM genome sequence provides a valuable resource for studying plague pathogenesis and evolution.
  • Genome rearrangements play a significant role in the diversification of Y. pestis strains.
  • KIM-specific genomic islands harbor novel genes contributing to the bacterium's virulence and adaptation.

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