Draft genome sequence of Staphylococcus saprophyticus strain 3M isolated from milk of cows with subclinical mastitis

Reagan Muhwezi1, G R Neel2, Emmanuel Eilu3

  • 1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kampala International University Western Campus, Ishaka, Uganda. muhwezi@kiu.ac.ug.

BMC Genomic Data
|June 4, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study sequenced the Staphylococcus saprophyticus strain 3M genome from a Ugandan cow with subclinical mastitis. The genome reveals antibiotic resistance genes and virulence factors, offering insights into bovine mastitis pathogens.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Veterinary Science

Background:

  • Subclinical mastitis (SCM) in cows is a significant economic concern in the dairy industry.
  • Staphylococcus species are common causes of bovine mastitis, impacting animal health and milk production.
  • Understanding the genetic makeup of mastitis-causing bacteria is crucial for developing effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present the draft genome sequence of Staphylococcus saprophyticus strain 3M, isolated from a cow with SCM in Uganda.
  • To investigate the antibiotic resistance genes and virulence potential of this SCM-associated isolate.
  • To contribute genomic data for Staphylococcus saprophyticus relevant to bovine mastitis.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing and assembly of Staphylococcus saprophyticus strain 3M.
  • Bioinformatic analysis including genome size, GC content, contig statistics, and genome coverage.
  • Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) analysis for taxonomic classification and relatedness to known strains.
  • Screening of the genome for antibiotic resistance genes using Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD) and virulence factors using Virulence Factor Database (VFDB).

Main Results:

  • The draft genome sequence of Staphylococcus saprophyticus strain 3M was successfully assembled (2.79 Mbp, 33% GC, 13 contigs).
  • ANI analysis confirmed the isolate as Staphylococcus saprophyticus subsp. saprophyticus, closely related to ATCC 15,305.
  • The genome harbors genes conferring resistance to Tetracyclines (tet(K)) and Aminoglycosides (norA, YkkCD, ANT(6)-I, str, S12p).
  • Identified virulence factors include Agr (biofilm, toxins), TcaR (Protein A), and MprF (antimicrobial peptide resistance).

Conclusions:

  • The genome sequence of Staphylococcus saprophyticus strain 3M provides valuable genetic information about a bovine mastitis pathogen.
  • The identified antibiotic resistance and virulence genes highlight potential challenges in treating SCM caused by this strain.
  • Further research can utilize this genomic data to understand S. saprophyticus pathogenesis and develop targeted interventions.