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Phage Phenomics: Physiological Approaches to Characterize Novel Viral Proteins
09:40

Phage Phenomics: Physiological Approaches to Characterize Novel Viral Proteins

Published on: June 11, 2015

Complete genome sequence of Vibrio parahaemolyticus bacteriophage vB_VpaM_MAR

Argentina Alanis Villa1, Andrew M Kropinski, Reza Abbasifar

  • 1Canadian Research Institute for Food Safety, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.

Journal of Virology
|November 3, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Researchers isolated and sequenced a novel bacteriophage, vB_VpaM_MAR, effective against Vibrio parahaemolyticus, a significant seafood pathogen. This phage shows promise for controlling foodborne illness caused by this bacterium.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Bacteriology
  • Virology

Background:

  • Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a significant foodborne pathogen, primarily linked to seafood consumption.
  • Controlling V. parahaemolyticus outbreaks is crucial for global food safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To isolate and fully sequence a bacteriophage targeting V. parahaemolyticus.
  • To characterize the isolated phage for its lytic activity and genomic features.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and purification of bacteriophage vB_VpaM_MAR.
  • Whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of the phage.
  • Determination of lytic activity against V. parahaemolyticus strains.

Main Results:

  • Phage vB_VpaM_MAR demonstrated lytic activity against 76% of tested V. parahaemolyticus strains.
  • The phage genome is double-stranded DNA, 41,351 bp in size, with 51.3% G+C content and 62 open reading frames.
  • Phylogenetic analysis indicated a close relationship to other Vibrio and Halomonas phages.

Conclusions:

  • Phage vB_VpaM_MAR is a novel Myoviridae family member with potential as a biocontrol agent against V. parahaemolyticus.
  • Complete genomic characterization provides a foundation for further development and application in food safety.

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