A novel multiple locus variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis (MLVA) method for Propionibacterium acnes

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genetics
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Propionibacterium acnes is a key factor in acne pathogenesis and opportunistic infections.
• Existing typing schemes struggle to differentiate P. acnes subtypes, limiting epidemiological studies.
• High-throughput genotyping is crucial for analyzing P. acnes genetic diversity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a high-throughput, discriminant genotyping method for P. acnes.
• To assess the genetic diversity and enable epidemiological analysis of P. acnes.
• To establish a reliable method for differentiating P. acnes strains.

Main Methods:

• Development of a multiple locus variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) analysis (MLVA) method using 13 VNTR loci.
• Genotyping of clinical P. acnes isolates and in silico analysis of 102 public genomes.
• Clustering analysis of MLVA data and comparison with whole-genome-based clustering.
• Analysis of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) elements for additional genotypic information.

Main Results:

• The developed MLVA13 scheme successfully genotyped P. acnes clinical isolates and public genomes.
• MLVA data clustering showed perfect congruence with whole-genome-based clustering.
• Novel spacers were identified within CRISPR elements, providing supplementary genotypic data.

Conclusions:

• The MLVA13 scheme is a robust, first-line genotyping assay for large-scale P. acnes isolate investigation.
• This method facilitates epidemiological studies and understanding of P. acnes genetic diversity.
• MLVA provides a valuable tool for selecting strains for further in-depth analysis, such as whole-genome sequencing.