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Draft Genome Sequences of Enterotoxigenic Bacillus cereus Strains Obtained from Powdered Infant Formula
Laurenda Carter1, Hannah R Chase1, Hyerim Choi1
1Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Laurel, Maryland, USA.
Insights
We present draft genome sequences for five enterotoxigenic Bacillus cereus strains isolated from infant formula. This research provides foundational genomic data for these foodborne pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Food Safety
Background:
- Enterotoxigenic Bacillus cereus is a significant foodborne pathogen.
- Contamination of infant formula poses a risk to vulnerable populations.
- Genomic data is crucial for understanding bacterial virulence and transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To generate and present draft genome sequences of five enterotoxigenic Bacillus cereus strains.
- To provide genomic resources for future research on Bacillus cereus virulence factors.
- To aid in the surveillance and control of Bacillus cereus in food products.
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome sequencing was performed on five Bacillus cereus strains (Bc 12, Bc 67, Bc 111, Bc 112, and Bc 113).
- Draft genome sequences were assembled and characterized.
- Genome size and G+C content were determined.
Main Results:
- Draft genome sequences for five enterotoxigenic Bacillus cereus strains were successfully generated.
- Genome sizes varied between 5.5 and 5.8 Mb.
- The G+C content for all sequenced strains was approximately 35.2%.
Conclusions:
- The availability of these draft genomes provides valuable genomic information on enterotoxigenic Bacillus cereus.
- These genomic resources can facilitate further studies into the genetic basis of enterotoxin production and pathogenicity.
- This data supports efforts to enhance food safety, particularly concerning infant formula.
Abstract:
We introduce the draft genome sequences of five enterotoxigenic Bacillus cereus strains: Bc 12, Bc 67, Bc 111, Bc 112, and Bc 113, which were obtained from powdered infant formula. The genome sizes of the strains ranged from 5.5 to 5.8 Mb, and the G+C contents were ~35.2%.
