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[Sequence analysis on sorbitol fermentation related genes in Vibrio cholerae]
Xiao-mei Yan1, Qing-hua Zou, Xun Zeng
1National Institute of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 102206, China.
Zhonghua Liu Xing Bing Xue Za Zhi = Zhonghua Liuxingbingxue Zazhi
|September 28, 2005
Summary
Genetic markers in Vibrio cholerae can differentiate epidemic from nonepidemic strains. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in specific genes, like the sugar fermentation stimulation protein, show distinct patterns, aiding in strain identification and understanding sorbitol fermentation.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Vibrio cholerae causes cholera, a significant global health concern.
- Distinguishing epidemic from nonepidemic strains is crucial for disease surveillance and control.
- Sorbitol fermentation is a key characteristic used in differentiating Vibrio cholerae strains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate genetic differences in sorbitol fermentation-related genes between epidemic and nonepidemic Vibrio cholerae strains.
- To optimize molecular analysis methods for distinguishing these strains.
- To identify potential genetic markers for epidemiological surveillance.
Main Methods:
- Sequence analysis of four key genes: sugar fermentation stimulation protein, periplasmic maltose-binding protein, periplasmic phosphate-binding protein, and periplasmic amino acid-binding protein.
- Comparison of nucleotide and amino acid sequences between epidemic and nonepidemic strains of O1 and O139 serogroups.
- Identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and their potential impact on protein function.
Main Results:
- Three point mutations were identified in the sugar fermentation stimulation protein gene, with specific nucleotide differences (A/A/T vs. G/G/C) in epidemic vs. nonepidemic strains.
- A significant amino acid change (Threonine vs. Alanine at the 36th position) was observed in the sugar fermentation stimulation protein.
- Additional point mutations were found in periplasmic maltose-binding and amino acid-binding protein genes, though without resulting amino acid changes.
Conclusions:
- Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the studied genes can serve as valuable molecular tools for differentiating epidemic and nonepidemic Vibrio cholerae strains.
- The observed mutation in the sugar fermentation stimulation protein may influence its activity and be linked to sorbitol fermentation differences.
- These genetic markers can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of Vibrio cholerae strain typing for epidemiological purposes.