Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 7, 2026

A Practical Guide to Phylogenetics for Nonexperts
Published on: February 5, 2014
Genetic and Phylogenetic Characteristics of Pasteurella multocida Isolates From Different Host Species
Zhong Peng1,2,3, Wan Liang1,2,3,4, Fei Wang1,2,3
1Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.
Abstract:
Pasteurella multocida is a leading cause of respiratory diseases in many host species. To understand the genetic characteristics of P. multocida strains isolated from different host species, we sequenced the genomic DNA of P. multocida isolated from pigs and analyzed the genetic characteristics of strains from avian species, bovine species, pigs, and rabbits using whole genome sequence (WGS) data. Our results found that a capsular: lipopolysaccharide (LPS): multilocus sequence typing (MLST) genotype A: L1: ST129 (43.75%) was predominant in avian P. multocida; while genotypes B: L2: ST122 (60.00%) and A: L3: ST79 (30.00%) were predominate in bovine P. multocida; genotype D: L6: ST50 (37.50%) in porcine P. multocida; and genotype A: L3: ST9 (76.47%) in rabbit P. multocida. Comparative genomic analysis of P. multocida from different host species found that there are no genes in the P. multocida genome that are specific to any type of host. Phylogenetic analysis using either whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or the set of SNPs present in all single-copy core genes across genomes showed that P. multocida strains with the same LPS genotype and MLST genotype were clustered together, suggesting the combining both the LPS and MLST typing schemes better explained the topology seen in the P. multocida phylogeny.
Insights
Pasteurella multocida strains from different hosts share no specific genes. Combining lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) genotypes better explains P. multocida strain relationships and phylogeny.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Genomics
- Bacterial Pathogenesis
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida is a significant pathogen causing respiratory diseases across various animal species.
- Understanding the genetic diversity of P. multocida strains is crucial for disease control and prevention.
- Previous studies have characterized P. multocida based on limited genetic markers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic characteristics of Pasteurella multocida strains isolated from different host species.
- To compare whole genome sequence (WGS) data of P. multocida from avian, bovine, porcine, and rabbit origins.
- To determine if host-specific genes exist within P. multocida genomes.
Main Methods:
- Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of P. multocida strains, including isolates from pigs.
- Analysis of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) genotypes.
- Comparative genomic analysis to identify host-specific genes.
- Phylogenetic analysis using whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and core gene SNPs.
Main Results:
- Predominant genotypes varied by host: avian (A:L1:ST129), bovine (B:L2:ST122 and A:L3:ST79), porcine (D:L6:ST50), and rabbit (A:L3:ST9).
- No host-specific genes were identified in the P. multocida genome across the studied species.
- Phylogenetic clustering strongly correlated with combined LPS and MLST genotypes, indicating their utility in explaining strain relationships.
Conclusions:
- Pasteurella multocida lacks host-specific genes, suggesting broad adaptability.
- The combination of LPS and MLST typing provides a robust framework for understanding P. multocida phylogeny and strain differentiation.
- These findings enhance our understanding of P. multocida epidemiology and can inform targeted control strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Genetics of Speciation
What is a Species?
Phylogenetic Trees
Characteristics of Life
Types of Genetic Transfer Between Organisms
Animal Mitochondrial Genetics

