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Genomic Analysis of 48 Paenibacillus larvae Bacteriophages

Casey Stamereilers1, Christopher P Fajardo2, Jamison K Walker3

  • 1School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA. casey.stamereilers@unlv.edu.

Viruses
|July 22, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Bacteriophages targeting Paenibacillus larvae, the cause of American foulbrood in honeybees, were analyzed. Genome sequencing revealed distinct clusters based on DNA packaging strategies, aiding in understanding bee disease control.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Virology
  • Apiculture

Background:

  • American foulbrood (AFB) is a destructive honeybee disease caused by Paenibacillus larvae.
  • Paenibacillus larvae phages have been known since the 1950s, but recent advancements allow for genomic analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze and classify all 48 currently sequenced Paenibacillus larvae phage genomes.
  • To understand the genomic diversity and conserved elements within Paenibacillus larvae phages.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative genomic analysis of 48 Paenibacillus larvae phage genomes.
  • Classification of phages into clusters based on genome size and DNA packaging strategy (cohesive ends vs. direct terminal repeat).
  • Identification and localization of putative phage protein functions.

Main Results:

  • Paenibacillus larvae phages were classified into four clusters and a singleton.
  • Two main genome types were identified: cohesive ends (cos) phages (38–45 kbp) and direct terminal repeat (DTR) phages (50–55 kbp).
  • Structural proteins are conserved within clusters, while regulatory/replication proteins are not; all phages possess a conserved endolysin.

Conclusions:

  • Genomic analysis reveals distinct clusters of Paenibacillus larvae phages, primarily differentiated by DNA packaging mechanisms.
  • Understanding phage genome organization and conserved proteins like endolysins is crucial for developing phage-based strategies against American foulbrood.
Keywords:
American foulbroodN-acetylmuramoyl-l-alanine amidasePaenibacillus larvaebacteriophagescomparative genomicslarge terminasemajor capsid protein

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