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Identification of a novel Mannheimia granulomatis lineage from lesions in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus)
Anders M Bojesen1, Jesper Larsen, Anders G Pedersen
1Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, The Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Stigbøjlen 4, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark. miki@life.ku.dk
Abstract:
Eight atypical Mannheimia isolates were isolated from lesions in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus). Traditional classification based on morphologic and physiologic traits showed that they belong to a distinct biogroup (taxon) within genus Mannheimia. Extensive phenotypic characterization suggested that the isolates should be classified as M. granulomatis, although the presence of distinct traits justified their classification into a separate biogroup within this species. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA sequences from two roe deer isolates and 41 other Mannheimia strains supported that the roe deer isolates form a monophyletic group within M. granulomatis. The lktA genotype was present in all roe deer isolates based on Southern blot analysis, whereas the corresponding beta-hemolytic phenotype was absent in one of these isolates.
Insights
Eight atypical Mannheimia isolates from roe deer lesions represent a distinct biogroup within Mannheimia granulomatis. Phylogenetic and genotypic analyses confirmed their unique classification, despite varied phenotypic expression of beta-hemolysis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Bacterial Taxonomy
- Genomics
Background:
- Mannheimia species are significant pathogens in ruminants.
- Atypical isolates from wildlife can pose challenges for accurate classification.
- Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) can harbor bacterial pathogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize and classify eight atypical Mannheimia isolates from roe deer lesions.
- To determine the phylogenetic relationship of these isolates within the Mannheimia genus.
- To investigate the presence and expression of the lktA gene.
Main Methods:
- Phenotypic characterization (morphologic and physiologic traits).
- Phylogenetic analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequences.
- Genotypic analysis (Southern blot) for the lktA gene.
Main Results:
- The isolates formed a distinct biogroup within the Mannheimia genus.
- Phenotypic and phylogenetic data supported classification as Mannheimia granulomatis.
- All isolates possessed the lktA genotype, but one lacked the beta-hemolytic phenotype.
Conclusions:
- Roe deer harbor a distinct biogroup of Mannheimia granulomatis.
- Phylogenetic analysis confirms their monophyletic grouping within M. granulomatis.
- Variations in lktA gene expression warrant further investigation.

