Enterobacteria Phage Ac3's Genome Annotation and Host Range Analysis Against the ECOR Reference Library

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Virology
• Genomics

Background:

• Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that infect bacteria.
• Understanding phage biology and host range is crucial for developing phage-based applications in medicine and agriculture.
• Phage Ac3 is a T4-like bacteriophage within the Myoviridae family.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the complete assembled and annotated genome sequence of bacteriophage Ac3.
• To evaluate the host range of Ac3 against a diverse collection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains.

Main Methods:

• Genome sequencing and annotation of bacteriophage Ac3.
• Spot tests and plaque assays were used to determine Ac3's adsorption and replication capabilities.
• The ECOR Reference Library, comprising 72 E. coli isolates, was utilized for host range analysis.

Main Results:

• The complete genome sequence of Ac3 was assembled and annotated (accession OK040907).
• Ac3 adsorbed to 59.7% (43/72) of E. coli strains tested.
• Ac3 successfully replicated in 37.5% (27/72) of E. coli strains, indicating a limited but specific host range.

Conclusions:

• The genome sequence of Ac3 provides a foundation for further research into its biology and applications.
• Ac3 exhibits differential host interactions, adsorbing to many strains but replicating in fewer, suggesting specific intracellular barriers.
• This study offers valuable data for the potential use of Ac3 in targeted bacterial control strategies.