Horizontal Gene Transfer Between Bacteria and Candida parapsilosis
Author Information
Author(s): Fitzpatrick David A, Logue Mary E, Butler Geraldine
Primary Institution: University College Dublin
Hypothesis
What is the frequency of recent interdomain horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events between prokaryotes and yeast species in the CTG clade?
Conclusion
The study found two instances of horizontal gene transfer from bacteria into the Candida parapsilosis genome, indicating that while such transfers are rare, they do occur.
Supporting Evidence
- Phylogenetic analysis suggests that two genes in C. parapsilosis originated from bacterial sources.
- Independent transfers of bacterial proline racemase enzymes into fungi and protists were inferred.
- Evidence indicates that C. parapsilosis reacquired a phenazine F homolog from a proteobacterial source.
Takeaway
Scientists found that some genes in a yeast called Candida parapsilosis came from bacteria, showing that these two types of organisms can share genes, even though it doesn't happen very often.
Methodology
The study used phylogenetic and syntenic analyses to identify horizontal gene transfer events.
Limitations
The analysis may not detect ancient gene transfers, potentially underestimating the extent of HGT into CTG species.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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