Microviridae Goes Temperate: Microvirus-Related Proviruses Reside in the Genomes of Bacteroidetes
2011

Microviridae-Related Proviruses of Bacteroidetes

Sample size: 7 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Krupovic Mart, Forterre Patrick

Primary Institution: Institut Pasteur, Paris, France

Hypothesis

Are there Microviridae-related prophages integrated in the genomes of Bacteroidetes?

Conclusion

This study identifies and characterizes Microviridae-related prophages integrated in the genomes of Bacteroidetes, suggesting a new group within the Microviridae family.

Supporting Evidence

  • This is the first report indicating that viruses of the Microviridae lysogenize their hosts.
  • Seven proviruses related to Microviridae were identified in the genomes of different species of Bacteroidetes.
  • BMVs are associated with human gut and oral microbiota.

Takeaway

Scientists found new viruses that live inside certain bacteria in our gut, which might help us understand more about how these viruses work.

Methodology

The study involved searching genomic databases for proviruses related to Microviridae and analyzing their sequences.

Limitations

The integration sites for some proviruses could not be definitively identified due to lack of genomic sequences for certain strains.

Participant Demographics

The identified proviruses were associated with human gut and oral microbiota.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0019893

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