Complete Genome Sequence of Salmonella enterica Myophage Matapan

Jasmine Juliette1, Yicheng Xie1, Heather Newkirk1

  • 1Center for Phage Technology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.

Insights

Scientists describe Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg phage Matapan. This myophage possesses a large genome and is closely related to Vi01-like phages, expanding knowledge of Salmonella bacteriophages.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Virology
  • Bacteriophage research

Background:

  • Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg is a significant foodborne pathogen.
  • Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria and are potential tools for controlling bacterial infections.
  • Understanding phage diversity is crucial for developing phage-based therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize a novel bacteriophage, named Matapan, that infects Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg.
  • To determine the genomic features of phage Matapan.
  • To establish the phylogenetic relationship of Matapan to other known phages.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and purification of bacteriophage Matapan from environmental samples.
  • Genome sequencing and analysis of Matapan.
  • Comparative genomic analysis with existing phage databases.

Main Results:

  • Phage Matapan was successfully isolated and characterized as a myophage.
  • The complete genome of Matapan was sequenced, revealing a size of 157,408 kb.
  • Phylogenetic analysis indicated that Matapan is most closely related to Vi01-like phages.

Conclusions:

  • Phage Matapan represents a newly described myophage with potential applications in Salmonella control.
  • The genomic data provides insights into the evolution and diversity of Salmonella-infecting phages.
  • Matapan's close relationship to Vi01-like phages suggests shared biological characteristics and potential for cross-application.