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Complete Genome Sequence of the Siphoviral Bacteriophage YMC/09/04/R1988 MRSA BP: A lytic phage from a

Jongsoo Jeon1, Roshan D'Souza, Sung Kuk Hong

  • 1Department of Laboratory Medicine and Research Institute of Antimicrobial Resistance, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.

FEMS Microbiology Letters
|August 16, 2014
PubMed

Insights

A novel bacteriophage, YMC/09/04/R1988 MRSA BP, shows promise as a new weapon against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. Its genome sequencing and broad host range suggest potential as an alternative antimicrobial agent.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Bacteriophage Therapy

Background:

  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) presents a growing global health challenge due to limited effective antibiotic treatments.
  • The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria necessitates the exploration of alternative therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the complete genome sequence of a novel virulent bacteriophage, YMC/09/04/R1988 MRSA BP.
  • To evaluate the potential of this bacteriophage as an alternative agent for combating MRSA infections.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of the isolated bacteriophage YMC/09/04/R1988 MRSA BP.
  • Bioinformatic analysis to predict open reading frames (ORFs) and their functions.
  • Host range determination against clinical MRSA isolates.

Main Results:

  • The bacteriophage YMC/09/04/R1988 MRSA BP possesses a linear double-stranded DNA genome of 44,459 bp.
  • The genome contains 62 predicted ORFs, with 23 annotated functions related to essential phage processes.
  • The phage demonstrated a broad host range, effectively lysing 17 out of 30 tested MRSA clinical isolates.

Conclusions:

  • The genomic characterization of YMC/09/04/R1988 MRSA BP provides a foundation for its development as a therapeutic agent.
  • This novel bacteriophage represents a promising candidate for alternative anti-MRSA strategies, addressing the critical need for new treatments against resistant bacterial infections.

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