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Phage Phenomics: Physiological Approaches to Characterize Novel Viral Proteins
Published on: June 11, 2015
12.9K
Comparative analysis of prophage-like elements in Helicobacter sp. genomes
Xiangyu Fan1, Yumei Li1, Rong He1
1School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan , Jinan , China.
Peerj
|May 12, 2016
Summary
This study details sixteen Helicobacter prophages, revealing four distinct clusters and identifying novel prophages. Some prophages carry genes linked to antibiotic resistance and bacterial virulence.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Virology
Background:
- Prophages significantly influence bacterial virulence, genomic diversity, and fitness.
- Knowledge regarding Helicobacter sp. prophages is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize prophages within Helicobacter species.
- To classify these prophages using comparative genomic analysis.
- To investigate the potential roles of prophages in bacterial adaptation.
Main Methods:
- Identification and detailed analysis of sixteen prophages in Helicobacter genomes.
- Comparative genomic analysis to classify prophages into clusters.
- Phylogenetic analysis of Cluster A prophages.
- Genomic analysis of prophages from Clusters B, C, and D.
Main Results:
- Sixteen prophages were identified and analyzed; eight are newly described.
- Prophages were classified into four distinct clusters based on genomic comparisons.
- Phylogenetic relationships within Cluster A were elucidated.
- Analysis revealed associations between Helicobacter prophages and genes encoding antibiotic resistance proteins and virulence factors.
Conclusions:
- This research expands the understanding of Helicobacter prophages and their genomic diversity.
- Helicobacter prophages may contribute to bacterial adaptation by carrying advantageous genes.
- Further investigation into the functional impact of these prophages is warranted.
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