High Molecular Diversity of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in Germany Revealed by Multitarget Genotyping

This study investigated the genetic diversity of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (Map)-the causative agent of paratuberculosis-isolated from different host species in Germany. A total of 500 isolates from 243 cattle herds and 9 other host species originating from 13 federal states were genotyped. A multi-target approach was applied, comprising IS900-RFLP with BstEII and PstI digestion; MIRU-VNTR; and SSR1, SSR8, and SSR9 analysis. In total, 93 combined genotypes were identified, 84 in cattle and 21 in non-cattle isolates. Ninety genotypes were assigned to the C-type group, and three genotypes (three from sheep and one from cattle) were assigned to the S-type/subtype III group. Cluster analysis divided genotypes into subgroups similar to those shown for WGS-SNP-based phylogenetic trees. New genotypes were revealed, including INMV262-267 and a specific sequence at locus VNTR7. Five genotypes that were predominant in cattle were also detected in sheep, goats, and deer. The majority of genotypes [61%] were identified only once. Polyclonal infections were observed in individual animals and herds, and various potential Map transmission linkages were uncovered. This high genotype richness of Map reflects the long history of paratuberculosis in Germany and intensive nationwide animal movement and international trading activity.