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Comparative Genomics of Leuconostoc carnosum
Francesco Candeliere1, Stefano Raimondi1, Gloria Spampinato1
1Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
Frontiers in Microbiology
|January 28, 2021
Summary
Leuconostoc carnosum, a meat bacterium, adapts to nitrogen-rich environments with unique metabolic features. Its genome analysis reveals plasmid-borne functions for protein breakdown, exopolysaccharides, and bacteriocin production, but lacks antibiotic resistance genes.
Area of Science:
- Food microbiology
- Bacterial genomics
- Meat science
Background:
- Leuconostoc carnosum is a key bacterium in meat products, influencing spoilage and potentially preservation.
- Understanding its metabolic and functional capabilities is crucial for food industry applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the draft genomes of 17 Leuconostoc carnosum strains.
- To decipher their metabolic and functional potential in food transformations.
- To identify genetic determinants of their adaptation and roles in meat products.
Main Methods:
- Comparative genomics of 17 Leuconostoc carnosum strains.
- Genome-wide pathway reconstruction and analysis.
- Identification and characterization of chromosomal and plasmid-borne genes.
Main Results:
- Leuconostoc carnosum strains are closely related heterofermentative bacteria with conserved metabolic features.
- Adaptation to meat environments is supported by numerous peptidase genes and nitrogen compound autotrophy.
- Plasmids carry genes for protein hydrolysis, exopolysaccharides, bacteriocins (lactococcin, leucocin B), and various resistances, but not antibiotic resistance.
Conclusions:
- Leuconostoc carnosum possesses a specialized metabolic arsenal for meat environments, including protein degradation and bacteriocin production.
- Plasmids play a significant role in the functional diversity and adaptation of these bacteria.
- The absence of antibiotic resistance genes suggests a low risk of horizontal gene transfer of such traits.
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