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Multi-locus sequence analysis reveals host specific association between Bartonella washoensis and squirrels.
Kai Inoue1, Hidenori Kabeya, Keiko Hagiya
1Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-8510, Japan.
Veterinary Microbiology
|October 2, 2010
Summary
Multi-locus sequence analysis revealed distinct genetic diversity among Bartonella washoensis strains from squirrels. These findings suggest co-speciation between Bartonella washoensis and its squirrel hosts.
Area of Science:
- * Microbiology and Molecular Biology
- * Veterinary Science
- * Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- * Bartonella washoensis is a bacterium found in squirrels.
- * Understanding its genetic diversity and host relationships is crucial for public health and ecological studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To investigate the phylogenetic relationships and genetic diversity of Bartonella washoensis strains.
- * To determine if Bartonella washoensis strains co-speciate with their squirrel hosts.
Main Methods:
- * Multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA) was performed on 20 Bartonella washoensis strains.
- * Genes analyzed included 16S rRNA, ftsZ, gltA, groEL, ribC, and rpoB.
- * Strains were isolated from five squirrel genera within the Sciuridae family.
Main Results:
- * Sequence similarities among strains varied from 94.7% to 98.4%.
- * Phylogenetic trees showed five distinct clades, each correlating with the host squirrel genus.
- * High bootstrap values and posterior probabilities supported these clades.
Conclusions:
- * Bartonella washoensis strains exhibit significant genetic diversity.
- * Evidence suggests co-speciation between Bartonella washoensis and its squirrel hosts.
- * MLSA is a valuable tool for accurately identifying the sources of Bartonella washoensis infections.
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