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Li J, Song X, Xiong Z, Wang G, Xia Y, Yang Y, Ai L. Establishment of CRISPR-Cas9 system in Bifidobacteria animalis AR668. Microb Cell Fact 2023; 22:112. [PMID: 37308875 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-023-02094-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Bifidobacteria are representative intestinal probiotics that have extremely high application value in the food and medical fields. However, the lack of molecular biology tools limits the research on functional genes and mechanisms of bifidobacteria. The application of an accurate and efficient CRISPR system to genome engineering can fill the gap in efficient genetic tools for bifidobacteria. In this study, CRISPR system of B. animalis AR668 was established, which successfully knocked out gene 0348 and gene 0208. The influence of different homology arms and fragments on the knockout effect of the system was explored. In addition, the inducible plasmid curing system of bifidobacteria was innovatively established. This study contributes to the genetic modification and functional mechanism analysis of bifidobacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Li
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 200093, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Song
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 200093, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqiang Xiong
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 200093, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangqiang Wang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 200093, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongjun Xia
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 200093, Shanghai, China
| | - Yijin Yang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 200093, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianzhong Ai
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 200093, Shanghai, China.
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2
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Chaplin AV, Efimov BA, Smeianov VV, Kafarskaia LI, Pikina AP, Shkoporov AN. Intraspecies Genomic Diversity and Long-Term Persistence of Bifidobacterium longum. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135658. [PMID: 26275230 PMCID: PMC4537262 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of genus Bifidobacterium are Gram-positive bacteria, representing a large part of the human infant microbiota and moderately common in adults. However, our knowledge about their diversity, intraspecific phylogeny and long-term persistence in humans is still limited. Bifidobacterium longum is generally considered to be the most common and prevalent species in the intestinal microbiota. In this work we studied whole genome sequences of 28 strains of B. longum, including 8 sequences described in this paper. Part of these strains were isolated from healthy children during a long observation period (up to 10 years between isolation from the same patient). The three known subspecies (longum, infantis and suis) could be clearly divided using sequence-based phylogenetic methods, gene content and the average nucleotide identity. The profiles of glycoside hydrolase genes reflected the different ecological specializations of these three subspecies. The high impact of horizontal gene transfer on genomic diversity was observed, which is possibly due to a large number of prophages and rapidly spreading plasmids. The pan-genome characteristics of the subspecies longum corresponded to the open pan-genome model. While the major part of the strain-specific genetic loci represented transposons and phage-derived regions, a large number of cell envelope synthesis genes were also observed within this category, representing high variability of cell surface molecules. We observed the cases of isolation of high genetically similar strains of B. longum from the same patients after long periods of time, however, we didn’t succeed in the isolation of genetically identical bacteria: a fact, reflecting the high plasticity of microbiota in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei V Chaplin
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Boris A Efimov
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir V Smeianov
- Department of Natural Sciences, Medical Institute, North Caucasus State Academy for Humanities and Technologies, Cherkessk, Russia
| | - Lyudmila I Kafarskaia
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alla P Pikina
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrei N Shkoporov
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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3
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Cui Y, Hu T, Qu X, Zhang L, Ding Z, Dong A. Plasmids from Food Lactic Acid Bacteria: Diversity, Similarity, and New Developments. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:13172-202. [PMID: 26068451 PMCID: PMC4490491 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160613172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Revised: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmids are widely distributed in different sources of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as self-replicating extrachromosomal genetic materials, and have received considerable attention due to their close relationship with many important functions as well as some industrially relevant characteristics of the LAB species. They are interesting with regard to the development of food-grade cloning vectors. This review summarizes new developments in the area of lactic acid bacteria plasmids and aims to provide up to date information that can be used in related future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhua Cui
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Tong Hu
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Xiaojun Qu
- Institute of Microbiology, Heilongjiang Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150010, China.
| | - Lanwei Zhang
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Zhongqing Ding
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Aijun Dong
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
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4
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Shintani M, Sanchez ZK, Kimbara K. Genomics of microbial plasmids: classification and identification based on replication and transfer systems and host taxonomy. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:242. [PMID: 25873913 PMCID: PMC4379921 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.00242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmids are important "vehicles" for the communication of genetic information between bacteria. The exchange of plasmids transmits pathogenically and environmentally relevant traits to the host bacteria, promoting their rapid evolution and adaptation to various environments. Over the past six decades, a large number of plasmids have been identified and isolated from different microbes. With the revolution of sequencing technology, more than 4600 complete sequences of plasmids found in bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes have been determined. The classification of a wide variety of plasmids is not only important to understand their features, host ranges, and microbial evolution but is also necessary to effectively use them as genetic tools for microbial engineering. This review summarizes the current situation of the classification of fully sequenced plasmids based on their host taxonomy and their features of replication and conjugative transfer. The majority of the fully sequenced plasmids are found in bacteria in the Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Spirochaetes, Actinobacteria, Cyanobacteria and Euryarcheota phyla, and key features of each phylum are included. Recent advances in the identification of novel types of plasmids and plasmid transfer by culture-independent methods using samples from natural environments are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Shintani
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Shizuoka University Shizuoka, Japan ; Department of Bioscience, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shizuoka University Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Zoe K Sanchez
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Shizuoka University Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Kimbara
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Shizuoka University Shizuoka, Japan
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5
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Tanaka K, Samura K, Kano Y. Structural and Functional Analysis of pTB6 from Bifidobacterium longum. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2014; 69:422-5. [PMID: 15725673 DOI: 10.1271/bbb.69.422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The complete nucleotide sequence for pTB6 (3,624 bp) from Bifidobacterium longum was determined. This plasmid is 95% homologous in nucleotide (nuc) sequence, and also 92% in RepB aa sequence, to rolling circle replication (RCR) plasmids pKJ36 and pB44, suggesting that pTB6 replicates by the rolling circle mechanism. The putative MembB, MobA, and protein encoding from orf (Orf) I detected were nonessential for plasmid replication. We constructed an immobile shuttle vector from pTB6 and pUC18, which transformed B. longum with a high efficiency of 2.5 x 10(6) transformants/microg DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunihito Tanaka
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Japan
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6
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Guglielmetti S, Mayo B, Álvarez-Martín P. Mobilome and genetic modification of bifidobacteria. Benef Microbes 2013; 4:143-66. [PMID: 23271067 DOI: 10.3920/bm2012.0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Until recently, proper development of molecular studies in Bifidobacterium species has been hampered by growth difficulties, because of their exigent nutritive requirements, oxygen sensitivity and lack of efficient genetic tools. These studies, however, are critical to uncover the cross-talk between bifidobacteria and their hosts' cells and to prove unequivocally the supposed beneficial effects provided through the endogenous bifidobacterial populations or after ingestion as probiotics. The genome sequencing projects of different bifidobacterial strains have provided a wealth of genetic data that will be of much help in deciphering the molecular basis of the physiological properties of bifidobacteria. To this end, the purposeful development of stable cloning and expression vectors based on robust replicons - either from temperate phages or resident plasmids - is still needed. This review addresses the current knowledge on the mobile genetic elements of bifidobacteria (prophages, plasmids and transposons) and summarises the different types of vectors already available, together with the transformation procedures for introducing DNA into the cells. It also covers recent molecular studies performed with such vectors and incipient results on the genetic modification of these organisms, establishing the basis that would allow the use of bifidobacteria for future biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Guglielmetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Alimentari e Microbiologiche, Sezione di Microbiologia Industriale, Università degli studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
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7
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Takahata M, Toh H, Nakano A, Takagi M, Murakami M, Ishii Y, Takizawa T, Tanabe S, Morita H. Complete sequence analysis of two cryptic plasmids from Bifidobacterium kashiwanohense JCM 15439 (type strain) isolated from healthy infant feces. Anim Sci J 2013; 85:158-63. [PMID: 23865717 DOI: 10.1111/asj.12095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Bifidobacterial plasmids reported so far are derived from a limited number of strains and plasmids of bifidobacterial type strains isolated from humans are unknown. We found that Bifidobacterium kashiwanohense JCM 15439 (type strain) isolated from a healthy infant contained two cryptic plasmids, designated pBBKW-1 and pBBKW-2. We determined and analyzed the complete sequences of both plasmids. pBBKW-1 (7716 bp) was predicted to replicate by a rolling-circle mechanism and encode six protein-coding genes, two of which are putative replication proteins. pBBKW-1 seems to be a cointegrate plasmid containing two copies of the plasmid pMG1 from Bifidobacterium longum. pBBKW-2 (2920 bp) was predicted to encode six protein-coding genes and be a theta-type replicating plasmid, which has been reported to be more stable than a rolling circle-type replicating plasmid frequently found in bifidobacteria. Our finding will provide new insights into safe recombinant plasmid constructions for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muneaki Takahata
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara; BioBank Co., Ltd, Okayama
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8
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Alvarez-Martín P, Zycka-Krzesińska J, Bardowski J, Mayo B. Sequence analysis of plasmid pSP02 from Bifidobacterium longum M62 and construction of pSP02-derived cloning vectors. Plasmid 2012; 69:119-26. [PMID: 23228478 DOI: 10.1016/j.plasmid.2012.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2012] [Revised: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Replicons from bifidobacteria species are required for the construction of general- and special-purpose vectors that would allow the undertaking of molecular studies of these bacteria. In this work, pSP02, a cryptic plasmid from Bifidobacterium longum M62, was cloned, sequenced and characterized. pSP02 was found to consist of 4896bp with four ORFs coding for proteins over 50 amino acids long. Among the deduced protein sequences only a replicase (RepA) and a mobilization-like protein (MobA) showed known functional domains. Similar to previously described bifidobacterial plasmids, the organization of the putative ori region of pSP02 resembles that of the theta-replicating plasmids of Gram-positives. In spite of this, hybridization experiments detected single stranded (ss)-DNA as an intermediate product in the pSP02 replication, demonstrating it follows the rolling-circle (RC) replication mode. The ori region of pSP02 was used to construct a series of first generation cloning vectors able to replicate in many bifidobacterial species. Real time quantitative PCR established the copy number of pSP02 and its derived vectors to be around 12 copies per chromosome equivalent. pSP02-derivatives showed full segregational and structural stability even in the absence of antibiotic selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Alvarez-Martín
- Departamento de Microbiología y Bioquímica de Productos Lácteos, Instituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias-IPLA-CSIC, Paseo Río Linares, s/n, 33300 Villaviciosa, Asturias, Spain
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9
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Cronin M, Ventura M, Fitzgerald GF, van Sinderen D. Progress in genomics, metabolism and biotechnology of bifidobacteria. Int J Food Microbiol 2011; 149:4-18. [PMID: 21320731 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2011.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2010] [Revised: 01/06/2011] [Accepted: 01/10/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Members of the genus Bifidobacterium were first described over a century ago and were quickly associated with a healthy intestinal tract due to their numerical dominance in breast-fed babies as compared to bottle-fed infants. Health benefits elicited by bifidobacteria to its host, as supported by clinical trials, have led to their wide application as probiotic components of health-promoting foods, especially in fermented dairy products. However, the relative paucity of genetic tools available for bifidobacteria has impeded development of a comprehensive molecular understanding of this genus. In this review we present a summary of current knowledge on bifidobacterial metabolism, classification, physiology and genetics and outline the currently available methods for genetically accessing and manipulating the genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Cronin
- Cork Cancer Research Centre, Mercy University Hospital and Leslie C. Quick Jnr. Laboratory, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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10
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Abstract
Since the discovery in 1899 of bifidobacteria as numerically dominant microbes in the feces of breast-fed infants, there have been numerous studies addressing their role in modulating gut microflora as well as their other potential health benefits. Because of this, they are frequently incorporated into foods as probiotic cultures. An understanding of their full interactions with intestinal microbes and the host is needed to scientifically validate any health benefits they may afford. Recently, the genome sequences of nine strains representing four species of Bifidobacterium became available. A comparative genome analysis of these genomes reveals a likely efficient capacity to adapt to their habitats, with B. longum subsp. infantis exhibiting more genomic potential to utilize human milk oligosaccharides, consistent with its habitat in the infant gut. Conversely, B. longum subsp. longum exhibits a higher genomic potential for utilization of plant-derived complex carbohydrates and polyols, consistent with its habitat in an adult gut. An intriguing observation is the loss of much of this genome potential when strains are adapted to pure culture environments, as highlighted by the genomes of B. animalis subsp. lactis strains, which exhibit the least potential for a gut habitat and are believed to have evolved from the B. animalis species during adaptation to dairy fermentation environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Hoon Lee
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Microbial and Plant Genomics Institute, University of Minnesota, 1500 Gortner Ave., St. Paul, Minnesota 55108
| | - Daniel J. O'Sullivan
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Microbial and Plant Genomics Institute, University of Minnesota, 1500 Gortner Ave., St. Paul, Minnesota 55108
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11
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Shareck J, Choi Y, Lee B, Miguez CB. Cloning Vectors Based on Cryptic Plasmids Isolated from Lactic Acid Bacteria:Their Characteristics and Potential Applications in Biotechnology. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2010; 24:155-208. [PMID: 15707158 DOI: 10.1080/07388550490904288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are Gram positive bacteria, widely distributed in nature, and industrially important as they are used in a variety of industrial food fermentations. The use of genetic engineering techniques is an effective means of enhancing the industrial applicability of LAB. However, when using genetic engineering technology, safety becomes an essential factor for the application of improved LAB to the food industry. Cloning and expression systems should be derived preferably from LAB cryptic plasmids that generally encode genes for which functions can be proposed, but no phenotypes can be observed. However, some plasmid-encoded functions have been discovered in cryptic plasmids originating from Lactobacillus, Streptococcus thermophilus, and Pediococcus spp. and can be used as selective marker systems in vector construction. This article presents information concerning LAB cryptic plasmids, and their structures, functions, and applications. A total of 134 cryptic plasmids collated are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Shareck
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
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12
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Shkoporov AN, Efimov BA, Khokhlova EV, Steele JL, Kafarskaia LI, Smeianov VV. Characterization of plasmids from human infant Bifidobacterium strains: sequence analysis and construction of E. coli-Bifidobacterium shuttle vectors. Plasmid 2008; 60:136-48. [PMID: 18652842 DOI: 10.1016/j.plasmid.2008.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2007] [Revised: 06/26/2008] [Accepted: 06/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A survey of infant fecal Bifidobacterium isolates for plasmid DNA revealed that a significant portion of the strains, 17.6%, carry small plasmids. The majority of plasmid-harboring strains belonged to the Bifidobacterium longum/infantis group. Most of the plasmids could be assigned into two groups based on their sizes and the restriction profiles. Three plasmids, pB44 (3.6 kb) from B. longum, pB80 (4.9 kb) from Bifidobacterium bifidum, and pB21a (5.2kb) from Bifidobacterium breve were sequenced. While the former two plasmids were found to be highly similar to previously characterized rolling-circle replicating pKJ36 and pKJ56, respectively, the third plasmid, pB21a, does not share significant nucleotide homology with known plasmids. However, it might be placed into the pCIBb1-like group of bifidobacterial rolling-plasmids based on the homology of its Rep protein and the overall molecular organization. Two sets of Escherichia coli-Bifidobacterium shuttle vectors constructed based on pB44 and pB80 replicons were capable of transforming B. bifidum and B. breve strains with efficiency up to 3x10(4)cfu/microg DNA. Additionally, an attempt was made to employ a broad host range conjugation element, RP4, in developing of E. coli-Bifidobacterium gene transfer system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei N Shkoporov
- Department of Microbiology, Russia State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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13
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Improved cloning vectors for bifidobacteria, based on the Bifidobacterium catenulatum pBC1 replicon. Appl Environ Microbiol 2008; 74:4656-65. [PMID: 18539807 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00074-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reports the development of several cloning vectors for bifidobacteria based on the replicon of pBC1, a cryptic plasmid from Bifidobacterium catenulatum L48 thought to replicate via the theta mode. These vectors, in which antibiotic resistance genes encoding either erythromycin or tetracycline resistance acted as selection markers, were able to replicate in a series of eight Bifidobacterium species at frequencies ranging from 4.0 x 10(1) to 1.0 x 10(5) transformants microg(-1) but not in Lactococcus lactis or Lactobacillus casei. They showed a relative copy number of around 30 molecules per chromosome equivalent and a good segregational stability, with more than 95% of the cells retaining the vectors after 80 to 100 generations in the absence of selection. Vectors contain multiple cloning sites of different lengths, and the lacZalpha peptide gene was introduced into one of the molecules, thus allowing the easy selection of colonies harboring recombinant plasmids in Escherichia coli. The functionality of the vectors for engineering Bifidobacterium strains was assessed by cloning and examining the expression of an alpha-l-arabinofuranosidase gene belonging to Bifidobacterium longum. E. coli and Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum recombinant clones were stable and showed an increase in alpha-arabinofuranosidase activity of over 100-fold compared to that of the untransformed hosts.
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14
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Vaillancourt K, Bédard N, Bart C, Tessier M, Robitaille G, Turgeon N, Frenette M, Moineau S, Vadeboncoeur C. Role of galK and galM in galactose metabolism by Streptococcus thermophilus. Appl Environ Microbiol 2008; 74:1264-7. [PMID: 18065633 PMCID: PMC2258605 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01585-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2007] [Accepted: 11/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus thermophilus is unable to metabolize the galactose moiety of lactose. In this paper, we show that a transformant of S. thermophilus SMQ-301 expressing Streptococcus salivarius galK and galM was able to grow on galactose and expelled at least twofold less galactose into the medium during growth on lactose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy Vaillancourt
- Groupe de Recherche en Ecologie Buccale, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4
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15
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Abstract
The 2.1-kb cryptic plasmid pCIBAO89 from Bifidobacterium asteroides harbors a 1.4-kb segment which is sufficient for its autonomous replication. The segment is divided into two parts, the presumed replication origin, ori89, and the rep gene encoding the putative 41-kDa Rep89 replication initiation protein. This minimal replication region of pCIBAO89 was functionally dissected by transcriptional analyses as well as by DNA-binding studies, and the information obtained was exploited to create a number of Escherichia coli-Bifidobacterium shuttle vectors capable of transforming various bifidobacteria with an efficiency of up to 10(6) transformants/mug DNA.
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16
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Ventura M, Canchaya C, Tauch A, Chandra G, Fitzgerald GF, Chater KF, van Sinderen D. Genomics of Actinobacteria: tracing the evolutionary history of an ancient phylum. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2007; 71:495-548. [PMID: 17804669 PMCID: PMC2168647 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00005-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 597] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Actinobacteria constitute one of the largest phyla among bacteria and represent gram-positive bacteria with a high G+C content in their DNA. This bacterial group includes microorganisms exhibiting a wide spectrum of morphologies, from coccoid to fragmenting hyphal forms, as well as possessing highly variable physiological and metabolic properties. Furthermore, Actinobacteria members have adopted different lifestyles, and can be pathogens (e.g., Corynebacterium, Mycobacterium, Nocardia, Tropheryma, and Propionibacterium), soil inhabitants (Streptomyces), plant commensals (Leifsonia), or gastrointestinal commensals (Bifidobacterium). The divergence of Actinobacteria from other bacteria is ancient, making it impossible to identify the phylogenetically closest bacterial group to Actinobacteria. Genome sequence analysis has revolutionized every aspect of bacterial biology by enhancing the understanding of the genetics, physiology, and evolutionary development of bacteria. Various actinobacterial genomes have been sequenced, revealing a wide genomic heterogeneity probably as a reflection of their biodiversity. This review provides an account of the recent explosion of actinobacterial genomics data and an attempt to place this in a biological and evolutionary context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Ventura
- Department of Genetics, Biology of Microorganisms, Anthropology and Evolution, University of Parma, parco Area delle Scienze 11a, 43100 Parma, Italy.
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17
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Alvarez-Martín P, O'Connell-Motherway M, van Sinderen D, Mayo B. Functional analysis of the pBC1 replicon from Bifidobacterium catenulatum L48. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2007; 76:1395-402. [PMID: 17704917 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-007-1115-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2007] [Revised: 07/06/2007] [Accepted: 07/07/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
To determine the minimal replicon of pBC1 (a 2.5-kb cryptic plasmid of Bifidobacterium catenulatum L48) and to check the functionality of its identified open reading frames (ORFs) and surrounding sequences, different segments of pBC1 were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and cloned into pBif, a replication probe vector for bifidobacteria. The largest fragment tested in this manner encompassed most of the pBC1 sequence, while the shortest just included the repB gene and its immediate upstream sequences. Derivatives were all shown to allow replication in bifidobacteria. Surprisingly, both the transformation frequency and segregational stability in the absence of antibiotic selection decreased with reducing plasmid length. The relative copy number of the constructs (ranging from around 3 to 23 copies per chromosome equivalent, as compared to 30 copies for the original pBC1) was shown to be strain dependent and to decrease with reducing plasmid length. These results suggest that, although not essential, the copG-like and orfX-like genes of pBC1 play important roles in pBC1 replication. Interruption of repB produced a construct incapable of replicating in bifidobacteria. The analysis of pBC1 will allow its use in the construction of general and specific cloning vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Alvarez-Martín
- Departamento de Microbiología y Bioquímica de Productos Lácteos, Instituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias (CSIC), Carretera de Infiesto s/n, 33300 Villaviciosa, Asturias, Spain
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Park YS, Kim KH, Park JH, Oh IK, Yoon SS. Isolation and molecular characterization of a cryptic plasmid from Bifidobacterium longum. Biotechnol Lett 2007; 30:145-51. [PMID: 17700996 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-007-9504-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2007] [Revised: 07/18/2007] [Accepted: 07/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
An isolate from the fecal samples of children was identified as Bifidobacterium longum. A plasmid isolated from it pBIFA24 was 4,892 bp with three open reading frames, ORFI, ORFII, and ORFIII. ORFI encoded a replication protein involved in a rolling-circle replication mechanism, and three sets of tandem repeat sequences featuring iteron structure were identified. Secondary structure prediction analysis of ORFII suggested it was a transmembrane protein. ORFIII showed high amino acid sequence identity with some mobilization proteins and contained an oriT sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Seo Park
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungwon University, Seongnam 461-701, Korea
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19
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Sangrador-Vegas A, Stanton C, van Sinderen D, Fitzgerald GF, Ross RP. Characterization of plasmid pASV479 from Bifidobacterium pseudolongum subsp. globosum and its use for expression vector construction. Plasmid 2007; 58:140-7. [PMID: 17467795 DOI: 10.1016/j.plasmid.2007.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2006] [Revised: 01/17/2007] [Accepted: 02/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Bifidobacterium pseudolongum subsp. globosum DPC479 is an intestinally-derived strain which contains a plasmid, pASV479, 4.8 kb in size. This plasmid has a G + C content of 59% and contains six open reading frames (ORFs), four of which are cryptic. The other two ORFs have 47% and 54% identity, respectively, to the replication and FtsK-like proteins found in a Bifidobacterium breve NCFB 2258 plasmid, indicating that these plasmids, though isolated from differing Bifidobacterium species, are related. Using this plasmid as a backbone, an expression vector, pBIFRIBO, was constructed which exploits a bifidobacteria rRNA promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Sangrador-Vegas
- Moorepark Food Research Centre, Teagasc, Fermoy, County Cork, Ireland
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20
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Guglielmetti S, Karp M, Mora D, Tamagnini I, Parini C. Molecular characterization of Bifidobacterium longum biovar longum NAL8 plasmids and construction of a novel replicon screening system. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2007; 74:1053-61. [PMID: 17151871 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-006-0755-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2006] [Revised: 11/08/2006] [Accepted: 11/09/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we performed molecular characterization and sequence analysis of three plasmids from the human intestinal isolate Bifidobacterium longum biovar longum NAL8 and developed a novel vector screening system. Plasmids pNAL8H (10 kb) and pNAL8M (4.9 kb) show close sequence similarity to and the same gene organization as the already characterized B. longum plasmids. The B. longum plasmid pNAC1 was identified as being most closely related to pNAL8L (3.5 kb). However, DNA sequence analysis suggested that direct repeat-rich sites could have promoted several recombination events to diversify the two plasmid molecules. We verified the likely rolling circle replication of plasmid pNAL8L and studied the phylogenetic relationship in all the Bifidobacterium plasmids fully sequenced to date based on in silico comparative sequence analysis of their replication proteins and iteron regions. Our transformation experiments confirmed that the ColE1 replication origin from high-copy-number pUC vectors could interfere with the replication apparatus of Bifidobacterium plasmids and give rise to false positive clones. As a result, we developed a system suitable for avoiding possible interference by other functional replication modules on the vector and for screening functional replicons from wild-type plasmids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Guglielmetti
- Department of Food Science and Microbiology, Industrial Microbiology Section, University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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21
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Ventura M, Canchaya C, Fitzgerald GF, Gupta RS, van Sinderen D. Genomics as a means to understand bacterial phylogeny and ecological adaptation: the case of bifidobacteria. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek 2006; 91:351-72. [PMID: 17072531 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-006-9122-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2006] [Accepted: 09/28/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The field of microbiology has in recent years been transformed by the ever increasing number of publicly available whole-genome sequences. This sequence information has significantly enhanced our understanding of the physiology, genetics and evolutionary development of bacteria. Among the latter group of microorganisms, bifidobacteria represent important human commensals because of their perceived contribution to maintaining a balanced gastrointestinal tract microbiota. In recent years bifidobacteria have drawn much scientific attention because of their use as live bacteria in numerous food preparations with various health-related claims. For this reason, these bacteria constitute a growing area of interest with respect to genomics, molecular biology and genetics. Recent genome sequencing of a number of bifidobacterial species has allowed access to the complete genetic make-up of these bacteria. In this review we will discuss how genomic data has allowed us to understand bifidobacterial evolution, while also revealing genetic functions that explains their presence in the particular ecological environment of the gastrointestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Ventura
- Department of Genetics, Anthropology and Evolution, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
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22
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Fernández-López R, Garcillán-Barcia MP, Revilla C, Lázaro M, Vielva L, de la Cruz F. Dynamics of the IncW genetic backbone imply general trends in conjugative plasmid evolution. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2006; 30:942-66. [PMID: 17026718 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6976.2006.00042.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmids cannot be understood as mere tools for genetic exchange: they are themselves subject to the forces of evolution. Their genomic and phylogenetic features have been less studied in this respect. Focusing on the IncW incompatibility group, which includes the smallest known conjugative plasmids, we attempt to unveil some common trends in plasmid evolution. The functional modules of IncW genetic backbone are described, with emphasis on their architecture and relationships to other plasmid groups. Some plasmid regions exhibit strong phylogenetic mosaicism, in striking contrast to others of unusual synteny conservation. The presence of genes of unknown function that are widely distributed in plasmid genomes is also emphasized, exposing the existence of ill-defined yet conserved plasmid functions. Conjugation is an essential hallmark of IncW plasmid biology and special attention is given to the organization and evolution of its transfer modules. Genetic exchange between plasmids and their hosts is analysed by following the evolution of the type IV secretion system. Adaptation of the trw conjugative machinery to pathogenicity functions in Bartonella is discussed as an example of how plasmids can change their host modus vivendi. Starting from the phage paradigm, our analysis articulates novel concepts that apply to plasmid evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Fernández-López
- Departamento de Biología Molecular (Unidad Asociada al C.I.B., C.S.I.C.), Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain
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Alvarez-Martín P, Flórez AB, Mayo B. Screening for plasmids among human bifidobacteria species: sequencing and analysis of pBC1 from Bifidobacterium catenulatum L48. Plasmid 2006; 57:165-74. [PMID: 16930703 DOI: 10.1016/j.plasmid.2006.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2006] [Revised: 07/03/2006] [Accepted: 07/07/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Analysis of 72 bifidobacterial isolates for plasmid DNA identified six different plasmid profiles, two profiles consisted of a single plasmid and four contained at least two. A plasmid identified in a Bifidobacterium catenulatum strain (pBC1) was chosen for further characterization based on its small size and stability. The plasmid was shown to be a circular molecule of 2540 base pairs with an overall G+C content of 64%. At the putative origin of replication a direct repeat of 24 nucleotides repeated three and a half times was observed, as well as five inverted repeats, which resembled the organization of theta-type replicating plasmids. Three open reading frames encoding peptides larger than 50 amino acids were also identified: repB, encoding a replicase of 315 amino acids, a transcriptionally coupled gene (orfX-like), similar to the orfX of some theta-replicating lactococcal plasmids, and copG-like in the complementary strand, which showed a conserved domain present in proteins of the CopG family. Comparison of the deduced RepB protein of pBC1 to other replication proteins in databases, identified pMB1 from Bifidobacterium longum as its closest relative (81% amino acid identity). The pBC1 replicon proved to be functional in several Bifidobacterium species, including B. animalis, B. longum, and B. pseudocatenulatum. Hybridization experiments showed the replicon was uncommon among bifidobacteria. The relative copy number of pBC1 was estimated to be 30.9+/-4.62 by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Alvarez-Martín
- Instituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Carretera de Infiesto s/n, 33300 Villaviciosa, Asturias, Spain
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Lee JH, O'Sullivan DJ. Sequence analysis of two cryptic plasmids from Bifidobacterium longum DJO10A and construction of a shuttle cloning vector. Appl Environ Microbiol 2006; 72:527-35. [PMID: 16391088 PMCID: PMC1352255 DOI: 10.1128/aem.72.1.527-535.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bifidobacterium longum DJO10A is a recent human isolate with probiotic characteristics and contains two plasmids, designated pDOJH10L and pDOJH10S. The complete sequences of both these plasmids have now been determined and consist of two circular DNA molecules of 10,073 and 3,661 bp, with G+C contents of 62.2% and 66.2%, respectively. Plasmid pDOJH10L is a cointegrate plasmid consisting of DNA regions exhibiting very high sequence identity to two other B. longum plasmids, pNAC2 (98%) and pKJ50 (96%), together with another region. Interestingly, the rolling circular replication (RCR) regions of both the pNAC2- and pKJ50-like plasmids were disrupted during the recombination event leading to a further recombination event to acquire a functional replicon. This consists of a new fused rep gene and an RCR-type ori consisting of a conserved DnaA box in an AT-rich region followed by four contiguous repeated sequences consistent with an iteron structure and an inverted repeat. The smaller pDOJH10S had no sequence similarity to any other characterized plasmid from bifidobacteria. In addition, it did not contain any features consistent with RCR, which is the replication mechanism proposed for all the bifidobacteria plasmids characterized to date. It did exhibit sequence similarity with several theta replication-related replication proteins from other gram-positive, high-G+C bacteria, with the closest match from a Rhodococcus rhodochrous plasmid, suggesting a theta mechanism of replication. S1 nuclease analysis of both plasmids in B. longum DJO10A revealed single-strand DNA intermediates for pDOJH10L, which is consistent for RCR, but none were detected for pDOJH10S. As the G+C content of pDOJH10S is similar to that of Rhodococcus rhodochrous (67%) and significantly higher than that of B. longum (60.1%), it may have been acquired through horizontal gene transfer from a Rhodococcus species, as both genera are members of the Actinomycetes and are intestinal inhabitants. An Escherichia coli-B. longum shuttle cloning vector was constructed from pDOJH10S and the E. coli ori region of p15A, a lacZ gene with a multiple cloning site of pUC18, and a chloramphenicol resistance gene (CAT) of pCI372 and was transformed successfully into E. coli and B. longum. It could not be introduced into lactic acid bacteria (Lactococcus and Lactobacillus), showing it was not very promiscuous. It was stably maintained in B. longum in the absence of antibiotic pressure for 92 generations, which is consistent with the segregational stability of theta-replicating plasmids in gram-positive bacteria. This is the first cloning vector for bifidobacteria that does not utilize RCR and should be useful for the stable introduction of heterologous genes into these dominant inhabitants of the large intestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Hoon Lee
- Cargill Building for Microbial and Plant Genomics, 1500 Gortner Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108.
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