Comparative genomics of four closely related Clostridium perfringens bacteriophages reveals variable evolution among core genes with therapeutic potential
2011

Comparative genomics of Clostridium perfringens bacteriophages

Sample size: 4 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Brian B. Oakley, Eldin Talundzic, Cesar A. Morales, Kelli L. Hiett, Gregory R. Siragusa, Nikolay V. Volozhantsev, Bruce S. Seal

Primary Institution: Poultry Microbiological Research Unit, Richard B. Russell Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, USDA

Hypothesis

Understanding the genomic context of bacteriophage gene products is essential for their biotechnological applications.

Conclusion

Significant genomic diversity exists among closely-related bacteriophages, with implications for their use in biotechnology.

Supporting Evidence

  • Phage genomes showed close relationships to each other and to other Clostridial phages.
  • Endolysins and holins are conserved functions across divergent phage genomes.
  • Significant variability was found in endolysin sequences among closely-related phages.

Takeaway

Scientists studied four similar viruses that attack bacteria to see how they are different and how they can be used to fight infections.

Methodology

The genomes of four bacteriophages were sequenced and analyzed for evolutionary relationships and genomic context.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2164-12-282

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