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Complete Genome Sequence of Staphylococcus aureus Myophage Maine
Russell Moreland1, Abby Korn1, Heather Newkirk1
1Center for Phage Technology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.
Microbiology Resource Announcements
|October 5, 2019
Abstract:
Multidrug-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus cause serious human disease worldwide. Bacteriophages offer a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics. Here, we announce the 141,712-bp genome of S. aureus phage Maine. A myophage with 9,019-bp predicted terminal repeats and high similarity to other Staphylococcus phages, Maine falls into the Twort-like group.
Insights
Bacteriophages are a promising alternative to antibiotics for treating infections caused by multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Researchers sequenced the genome of S. aureus phage Maine, identifying it as a Twort-like myophage.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Virology
Background:
- Multidrug-resistant *Staphylococcus aureus* poses a significant global health threat.
- Traditional antibiotics are becoming less effective against resistant bacterial strains.
- Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria and represent a potential alternative therapeutic strategy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To sequence and characterize the genome of *Staphylococcus aureus* phage Maine.
- To classify phage Maine within existing phage taxonomy.
- To contribute genomic data for the development of phage therapy.
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome sequencing of *S. aureus* phage Maine.
- Bioinformatic analysis to predict genome features, including terminal repeats.
- Comparative genomic analysis to determine phylogenetic relationships with other *Staphylococcus* phages.
Main Results:
- The complete genome of *S. aureus* phage Maine was sequenced, measuring 141,712 base pairs.
- Phage Maine was identified as a myophage with 9,019-bp predicted terminal repeats.
- Genomic analysis revealed high similarity to other *Staphylococcus* phages, placing it in the Twort-like group.
Conclusions:
- The genomic characterization of phage Maine provides valuable data for phage therapy development.
- Phage Maine's classification within the Twort-like group aids in understanding *Staphylococcus* phage evolution.
- This study supports the potential of bacteriophages as a viable alternative to antibiotics for treating *S. aureus* infections.
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