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Genome structure of mycobacteriophage D29: implications for phage evolution
M E Ford1, G J Sarkis, A E Belanger
1Pittsburgh Bacteriophage Institute, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.
Journal of Molecular Biology
|June 24, 1998
Summary
Mycobacteriophage D29, a lytic phage, shares genomic similarities with mycobacteriophage L5 but lacks lysogenic capability due to a repressor gene deletion. This highlights genetic mosaicism in lambdoid phages.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Virology
- Genomics
Background:
- Mycobacteriophage D29 is a lytic phage infecting various mycobacteria.
- Mycobacteriophage L5 is a temperate relative with a previously sequenced genome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the complete genome sequence of Mycobacteriophage D29.
- To compare the D29 genome with that of L5 and elucidate D29's lytic nature.
Main Methods:
- Whole genome sequencing of Mycobacteriophage D29.
- Comparative genomic analysis between D29 and L5.
Main Results:
- The D29 genome is similar in organization to L5.
- A 3.6 kb deletion in D29 removes the repressor gene, explaining its inability to form lysogens.
- Extensive gene insertions, deletions, and substitutions were observed between D29 and L5.
Conclusions:
- Mycobacteriophage D29 is a distinct lytic phage closely related to L5.
- The genomic differences underscore the genetic mosaicism characteristic of lambdoid phages.