Lateral Gene Transfer of Streptococcal ICE Element RD2
Author Information
Author(s): Sitkiewicz Izabela, Green Nicole M, Guo Nina, Mereghetti Laurent, Musser James M
Primary Institution: Center for Molecular and Translational Human Infectious Diseases Research, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute
Hypothesis
The RD2 element was laterally transferable in vitro under laboratory conditions.
Conclusion
The RD2 element has disseminated by lateral gene transfer to genetically diverse strains of human-pathogenic streptococci.
Supporting Evidence
- The RD2 element is present in all serotype M28 strains and strains of several other GAS serotypes.
- Ten RD2-encoded proteins have significant similarity to proteins involved in conjugative transfer.
- RD2 was transferred from GAS strain MGAS6180 to serotype M1 and M4 GAS strains by filter mating.
- The copy number of the RD2 element increased significantly after treatment with mitomycin C.
- RD2-like regions were identified in multiple group C and G strains of Streptococcus dysgalactiae.
Takeaway
Scientists found that a specific genetic element in a type of bacteria can move between different strains, which might help them survive better.
Methodology
The study involved filter mating experiments to transfer the RD2 element between different strains of Streptococcus.
Limitations
The transfer frequency may have been influenced by the inactivation of certain genes in the donor strain.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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