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Whole-genome of Mexican-crAssphage isolated from the human gut microbiome

Melany Cervantes-Echeverría1, Edgar Equihua-Medina1, Fernanda Cornejo-Granados1

  • 1Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, 62210, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.

BMC Research Notes
|December 19, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

We report the first whole genome sequence of Mexican-crAssphage, a prevalent virus in the human gut microbiome. This provides crucial genomic data for understanding this abundant bacteriophage in Latin American populations.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Virology
  • Genomics

Background:

  • The crAssphage is the most abundant virus identified in the human gut microbiome.
  • Knowledge regarding crAssphage's proteins, pathogenicity, and epidemiology remains limited.
  • Further genomic investigation is essential for a comprehensive understanding, particularly in diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To sequence and characterize the whole genome of a crAssphage isolate from the Mexican population.
  • To provide the first whole genome data of crAssphage from a Latin American population.
  • To contribute valuable genomic information for future experimental studies on crAssphage.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and whole genome sequencing of Mexican-crAssphage.
  • Bioinformatic analysis of the genome, including size, G+C content, and coding sequences.
  • Detection of Mexican-crAssphage in fecal samples using viral-like particle enrichment and sequencing.

Main Results:

  • The complete genome of Mexican-crAssphage was determined (96,283 bp, 29.24% G+C content) with 87 coding sequences.
  • No transfer RNA genes were identified within the Mexican-crAssphage genome.
  • Mexican-crAssphage was detected in 28.5% of the analyzed fecal samples from the Mexican population.

Conclusions:

  • This study presents the first whole genome of crAssphage from Latin America, named Mexican-crAssphage.
  • The genomic data offers a foundation for further research into crAssphage's role in the human gut.
  • The findings enhance our understanding of this abundant gut virus in a specific human population.
Keywords:
Host-microbiotaHuman gut microbiomeHuman phagesMexican-crAssphagecrAssphage

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