Genome sequencing reveals differences in Salmonella enterica subpopulations
Author Information
Author(s): den Bakker Henk C, Moreno Switt Andrea I, Govoni Gregory, Cummings Craig A, Ranieri Matthew L, Degoricija Lovorka, Hoelzer Karin, Rodriguez-Rivera Lorraine D, Brown Stephanie, Bolchacova Elena, Furtado Manohar R, Wiedmann Martin
Primary Institution: Cornell University
Hypothesis
Does the population structure of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica show distinct subpopulations with unique virulence factors?
Conclusion
Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica consists of at least two subpopulations that differ in genes related to host adaptation and virulence.
Supporting Evidence
- Phylogenetic analysis revealed two distinct subpopulations of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica.
- Clade B strains contain unique genes suggesting specialization to vertebrate hosts.
- Approximately 25% of the examined serovars belonged to clade B.
- Clade-specific genes were identified that may influence adhesion and colonization.
- Presence of pathogenicity islands was linked to clade B strains.
Takeaway
Scientists found that there are at least two different types of Salmonella that behave differently and can cause different diseases.
Methodology
The study used comparative genomics, multi-locus sequence analysis, and qPCR assays to analyze the population structure and gene content of Salmonella enterica.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on clinical isolates, which may not represent the entire diversity of Salmonella enterica in different environments.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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