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Complete Genome Sequence of Bacteriophage Deep-Blue Infecting Emetic Bacillus cereus

Louise Hock1, Annika Gillis1, Jacques Mahillon2

  • 1Laboratory of Food and Environmental Microbiology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium.

Genome Announcements
|June 18, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Researchers sequenced the genome of bacteriophage Deep-Blue, a virus targeting Bacillus cereus strains that cause food poisoning. This myophage offers potential for controlling food-borne illnesses linked to this bacterium.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Virology
  • Food Safety

Background:

  • Bacillus cereus is a bacterium responsible for significant food-borne illnesses.
  • The emetic pathotype of B. cereus produces toxins causing intoxication.
  • Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria and can be used for control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the complete genome sequence of bacteriophage Deep-Blue.
  • To characterize Deep-Blue as a myophage infecting emetic B. cereus strains.
  • To provide genomic data for understanding phage-host interactions and potential applications.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of bacteriophage Deep-Blue.
  • Bioinformatic analysis of the genome sequence.
  • Phylogenetic analysis to determine its taxonomic group.

Main Results:

  • The complete genome sequence of bacteriophage Deep-Blue was determined.
  • Deep-Blue is a 159-kb myophage.
  • It belongs to the Bastille-like group within the Spounavirinae subfamily.

Conclusions:

  • The genomic characterization of bacteriophage Deep-Blue provides insights into its biology.
  • This phage has the potential to target and control emetic Bacillus cereus strains.
  • Understanding phage genomes is crucial for developing novel food safety strategies.

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