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Complete Genome Sequences of Three phi29-Like Bacillus cereus Group Podoviridae
Ivan Erill1, Steven M Caruso2,
1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Genome Announcements
|July 22, 2017
Abstract:
Three double-stranded DNA phi29-like Bacillus cereus group bacteriophages, BeachBum, Harambe, and SerPounce, were identified and characterized. BeachBum and Harambe are closely related but are remarkably different from previously identified phi29-like phages. SerPounce is substantially closer to other phi29-like phages, enabling the identification of its prohead RNA (pRNA) gene.
Insights
Three new Bacillus cereus bacteriophages were discovered. Two phages, BeachBum and Harambe, are unique phi29-like viruses, while SerPounce aids in identifying a prohead RNA gene.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Virology
- Bacteriophage research
Background:
- The Bacillus cereus group harbors diverse bacteriophages.
- Phi29-like phages are a significant group of double-stranded DNA viruses.
- Understanding phage diversity is crucial for applications in biotechnology and medicine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize novel phi29-like bacteriophages infecting Bacillus cereus group bacteria.
- To compare the genetic and structural features of newly identified phages with known relatives.
- To investigate the potential for identifying specific phage genes, such as prohead RNA (pRNA).
Main Methods:
- Isolation and purification of bacteriophages from environmental samples.
- Genomic DNA extraction and sequencing.
- Comparative genomic analysis.
- Phylogenetic analysis to determine evolutionary relationships.
Main Results:
- Three double-stranded DNA phi29-like bacteriophages, named BeachBum, Harambe, and SerPounce, were successfully isolated and characterized.
- BeachBum and Harambe exhibit significant divergence from previously known phi29-like phages, suggesting novel evolutionary pathways.
- SerPounce demonstrates closer homology to existing phi29-like phages, facilitating the identification of its prohead RNA (pRNA) gene.
Conclusions:
- The discovery of BeachBum and Harambe expands the known diversity within the phi29-like phage family infecting Bacillus cereus.
- SerPounce serves as a valuable model for studying phi29-like phage genetics, particularly the pRNA gene.
- These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of bacteriophage evolution and host interactions.
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