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Jureckova K, Nykrynova M, Slaninova E, Fleuriot-Blitman H, Amstutz V, Hermankova K, Bezdicek M, Mrazova K, Hrubanova K, Zinn M, Obruca S, Sedlar K. Cultivation driven transcriptomic changes in the wild-type and mutant strains of Rhodospirillum rubrum. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2681-2694. [PMID: 39035834 PMCID: PMC11259993 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Purple photosynthetic bacteria (PPB) are versatile microorganisms capable of producing various value-added chemicals, e.g., biopolymers and biofuels. They employ diverse metabolic pathways, allowing them to adapt to various growth conditions and even extreme environments. Thus, they are ideal organisms for the Next Generation Industrial Biotechnology concept of reducing the risk of contamination by using naturally robust extremophiles. Unfortunately, the potential of PPB for use in biotechnology is hampered by missing knowledge on regulations of their metabolism. Although Rhodospirillum rubrum represents a model purple bacterium studied for polyhydroxyalkanoate and hydrogen production, light/chemical energy conversion, and nitrogen fixation, little is known regarding the regulation of its metabolism at the transcriptomic level. Using RNA sequencing, we compared gene expression during the cultivation utilizing fructose and acetate as substrates in case of the wild-type strain R. rubrum DSM 467T and its knock-out mutant strain that is missing two polyhydroxyalkanoate synthases PhaC1 and PhaC2. During this first genome-wide expression study of R. rubrum, we were able to characterize cultivation-driven transcriptomic changes and to annotate non-coding elements as small RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Jureckova
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Marketa Nykrynova
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Slaninova
- Department of Food Chemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Hugo Fleuriot-Blitman
- Institute of Life Technologies, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Valais-Wallis (HES-SO Valais-Wallis), Sion, Switzerland
| | - Véronique Amstutz
- Institute of Life Technologies, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Valais-Wallis (HES-SO Valais-Wallis), Sion, Switzerland
| | - Kristyna Hermankova
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Matej Bezdicek
- Department of Internal Medicine – Haematology and Oncology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Internal Medicine – Haematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Mrazova
- Department of Food Chemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Scientific Instruments of the Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kamila Hrubanova
- Institute of Scientific Instruments of the Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Manfred Zinn
- Institute of Life Technologies, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Valais-Wallis (HES-SO Valais-Wallis), Sion, Switzerland
| | - Stanislav Obruca
- Department of Food Chemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Sedlar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
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Yang W, Luyten Y, Reister E, Mangelson H, Sisson Z, Auch B, Liachko I, Roberts RJ, Ettwiller L. Proxi-RIMS-seq2 applied to native microbiomes uncovers hundreds of known and novel m5 C methyltransferase specificities. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.15.603628. [PMID: 39071437 PMCID: PMC11275837 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.15.603628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Methylation patterns in bacteria can be used to study Restriction-Modification (RM) or other defense systems with novel properties. While m4 C and m6 A methylation is well characterized mainly through PacBio sequencing, the landscape of m5 C methylation is under-characterized. To bridge this gap, we performed RIMS-seq2 on microbiomes composed of resolved assemblies of distinct genomes through proximity ligation. This high-throughput approach enables the identification of m5 C methylated motifs and links them to cognate methyltransferases directly on native microbiomes without the need to isolate bacterial strains. Methylation patterns can also be identified on viral DNA and compared to host DNA, strengthening evidence for virus-host interaction. Applied to three different microbiomes, the method unveils over 1900 motifs that were deposited in REBASE. The motifs include a novel 8-base recognition site (CAT m5 CGATG) that was experimentally validated by characterizing its cognate methyltransferase. Our findings suggest that microbiomes harbor arrays of untapped m5 C methyltransferase specificities, providing insights to bacterial biology and biotechnological applications.
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Zhang JZ, Li YZ, Xi ZN, Gao HP, Zhang Q, Liu LC, Li FL, Ma XQ. Engineered acetogenic bacteria as microbial cell factory for diversified biochemicals. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1395540. [PMID: 39055341 PMCID: PMC11269201 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1395540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Acetogenic bacteria (acetogens) are a class of microorganisms with conserved Wood-Ljungdahl pathway that can utilize CO and CO2/H2 as carbon source for autotrophic growth and convert these substrates to acetate and ethanol. Acetogens have great potential for the sustainable production of biofuels and bulk biochemicals using C1 gases (CO and CO2) from industrial syngas and waste gases, which play an important role in achieving carbon neutrality. In recent years, with the development and improvement of gene editing methods, the metabolic engineering of acetogens is making rapid progress. With introduction of heterogeneous metabolic pathways, acetogens can improve the production capacity of native products or obtain the ability to synthesize non-native products. This paper reviews the recent application of metabolic engineering in acetogens. In addition, the challenges of metabolic engineering in acetogens are indicated, and strategies to address these challenges are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Zhe Zhang
- Qingdao C1 Refinery Engineering Research Center, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Zhen Li
- Qingdao C1 Refinery Engineering Research Center, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Ning Xi
- Qingdao C1 Refinery Engineering Research Center, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Hui-Peng Gao
- Sinopec Dalian (Fushun) Research Institute of Petroleum and Petrochemicals, Dalian, China
| | - Quan Zhang
- Sinopec Dalian (Fushun) Research Institute of Petroleum and Petrochemicals, Dalian, China
| | - Li-Cheng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Fu-Li Li
- Qingdao C1 Refinery Engineering Research Center, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Shandong Energy Institute, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao New Energy Shandong Laboratory, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Ma
- Qingdao C1 Refinery Engineering Research Center, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao New Energy Shandong Laboratory, Qingdao, China
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4
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Won C, Yim SS. Emerging methylation-based approaches in microbiome engineering. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS AND BIOPRODUCTS 2024; 17:96. [PMID: 38987811 PMCID: PMC11238421 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-024-02529-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial epigenetics, particularly through DNA methylation, exerts significant influence over various biological processes such as DNA replication, uptake, and gene regulation in bacteria. In this review, we explore recent advances in characterizing bacterial epigenomes, accompanied by emerging strategies that harness bacterial epigenetics to elucidate and engineer diverse bacterial species with precision and effectiveness. Furthermore, we delve into the potential of epigenetic modifications to steer microbial functions and influence community dynamics, offering promising opportunities for understanding and modulating microbiomes. Additionally, we investigate the extensive diversity of DNA methyltransferases and emphasize their potential utility in the context of the human microbiome. In summary, this review highlights the potential of DNA methylation as a powerful toolkit for engineering microbiomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changhee Won
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Sun Yim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- Graduate School of Engineering Biology, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- KAIST Institute for BioCentury, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
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5
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Wu HN, Fujisawa Y, Tozuka Z, Fomenkov A, Nakura Y, Kajiyama SI, Fujiwara S, Yasukawa K, Roberts RJ, Yanagihara I. Identification of an endonuclease and N 6-adenine methyltransferase from Ureaplasma parvum SV3F4 strain. Enzyme Microb Technol 2024; 180:110471. [PMID: 38959818 DOI: 10.1016/j.enzmictec.2024.110471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Here, we report a novel endonuclease and N6-adenine DNA methyltransferase (m6A methyltransferase) in the Ureaplasma parvum SV3F4 strain. Our previous study found that the SV3F4 strain carries 17 unique genes, which are not encoded in the two previously reported U. parvum serovar 3 strain, OMC-P162 and ATCC 700970. Of these 17 unique genes, UP3_c0261 and UP3_c0262, were originally annotated as encoding hypothetical proteins. Comparative genomics analyses more recently indicated they encode a Type II restriction endonuclease and an m6A methyltransferase, respectively. The UP3_c0261 and UP3_c0262 genes were individually expressed and purified in Escherichia coli. The UP3_c0261 recombinant protein showed endonuclease activity on the pT7Blue vector, recognizing and cleaving a GTNAC motif, resulting in a 5 base 5' extension. The UP3_c0261 protein digested a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) product harboring the GTNAC motif. The endonuclease UP3_c0261 was designated as UpaF4I. Treatment of the PCR product with the recombinant protein UP3_c0262 completely blocked the restriction enzyme activity of UpaF4I. Analysis of the treated PCR product harboring a modified nucleotide by UP3_c0262 with HPLC-MS/MS and MS/MS showed that UP3_c0262 was an m6A methyltransferase containing a methylated A residue in both DNA strands of the GTNAC motif. Whole genome methylation analysis of SV3F4 showed that 99.9 % of the GTNAC motif was m6A modified. These results suggest the UP3_c0261 and UP3_c0262 genes may act as a novel Type II restriction-modification system in the Ureaplasma SV3F4 strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Ning Wu
- Department of Developmental Medicine, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, 840 Murodo-cho, Izumi City, Osaka 594-1101, Japan
| | - Yuya Fujisawa
- Department of Developmental Medicine, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, 840 Murodo-cho, Izumi City, Osaka 594-1101, Japan; Division of Biotechnological Science, Graduate School of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University, 930 Nishimitani, Kinokawa City, Wakayama 649-6493, Japan
| | - Zenzaburo Tozuka
- Center for Supporting Drug Discovery and Life Science Research, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita City, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Alexey Fomenkov
- New England Biolabs Inc., 240 County Rd., Ipswich, MA 01938, USA
| | - Yukiko Nakura
- Department of Developmental Medicine, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, 840 Murodo-cho, Izumi City, Osaka 594-1101, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichiro Kajiyama
- Division of Biotechnological Science, Graduate School of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University, 930 Nishimitani, Kinokawa City, Wakayama 649-6493, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Fujiwara
- Department of Biosciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei-Gakuin University, 1 Gakuen-Uegahara, Sanda City, Hyogo 669-1330, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Yasukawa
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City 606-8502, Japan
| | | | - Itaru Yanagihara
- Department of Developmental Medicine, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, 840 Murodo-cho, Izumi City, Osaka 594-1101, Japan.
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Zhang Y, Agresti JJ, Zheng Y, Weitz DA. High-throughput direct screening of restriction endonuclease using a microfluidic fluorescence-activated drop sorter based on the SOS response in Escherichia coli. Analyst 2024; 149:3575-3584. [PMID: 38758107 DOI: 10.1039/d4an00106k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
A restriction endonuclease (RE) is an enzyme that can recognize a specific DNA sequence and cleave that DNA into fragments with double-stranded breaks. This sequence-specific cleaving ability and its ease of use have made REs commonly used tools in molecular biology since their first isolation and characterization in 1970s. While artificial REs still face many challenges in large-scale synthesis and precise activity control for practical use, searching for new REs in natural samples remains a viable route to expanding the RE pool for fundamental research and industrial applications. In this paper, we propose a new strategy to search for REs in an efficient manner. We constructed a host bacterial cell to link the genotype of REs to the phenotype of β-galactosidase expression based on the bacterial SOS response, and used a high-throughput microfluidic platform to isolate, detect and sort the REs in microfluidic drops at a frequency of ∼800 drops per second. We employed this strategy to screen for the XbaI gene from the constructed libraries of varied sizes. In a single round of sorting, a 90-fold target enrichment was achieved within 1 h. Compared to conventional RE-screening methods, the direct screening approach that we propose excels at efficient search of desirable REs in natural samples - especially unculturable samples - and can be tailored to high-throughput screening of a wide range of genotoxic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhe Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Jeremy J Agresti
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Yu Zheng
- New England BioLabs, Inc., Ipswich, MA 01938, USA
| | - David A Weitz
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
- Department of Physics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
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Liu J, Zhang Y, Zhou N, He J, Xu J, Cai Z, Yang L, Liu Y. Bacmethy: A novel and convenient tool for investigating bacterial DNA methylation pattern and their transcriptional regulation effects. IMETA 2024; 3:e186. [PMID: 38898993 PMCID: PMC11183182 DOI: 10.1002/imt2.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
DNA methylation serves as the primary mode of epigenetic regulation in prokaryotes, particularly through transcriptional regulation. With the rapid implementation of third-generation sequencing technology, we are currently experiencing a golden age of bacterial epigenomics. However, there has been a lack of comprehensive research exploring the versatility and consequential impact of bacterial DNA methylome on cellular and physiological functions. There is a critical need for a user-friendly bioinformatics tool that can effectively characterize DNA methylation modification features and predict the regulation patterns. To address this gap, the current study introduces Bacmethy, an innovative tool that utilizes SMRT-seq data and offers a range of analytical modules. First, the tool classifies methylation sites in the genome, highlighting the distinct regulations present under varying modification fractions and location enrichment. Furthermore, this tool enables us to identify regulatory region methylation and potential cis and trans interactions between methylation sites and regulatory effectors. Using benchmark data sets and our data, we show that our tool facilitates the understanding of the distinctive traits of DNA methylation modifications and predicts transcriptional regulation effects on important physiological and pathological functions. Bacmethy code is freely available, and the Docker image is downloadable. Bacmethy has been made available as a user-friendly web server interface at https://bacmethy.med.sustech.edu.cn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji‐Hong Liu
- Medical Research CenterSouthern University of Science and Technology HospitalShenzhenChina
- School of Medicine, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of GuangdongSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
| | - Yizhou Zhang
- Medical Research CenterSouthern University of Science and Technology HospitalShenzhenChina
- School of Medicine, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of GuangdongSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
| | - Ning Zhou
- Clinical LaboratorySouthern University of Science and Technology HospitalShenzhenChina
| | - Jiale He
- Medical Research CenterSouthern University of Science and Technology HospitalShenzhenChina
- School of Medicine, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of GuangdongSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
| | - Jing Xu
- Medical Research CenterSouthern University of Science and Technology HospitalShenzhenChina
| | - Zhao Cai
- School of Medicine, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of GuangdongSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
| | - Liang Yang
- School of Medicine, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of GuangdongSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and TechnologyNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseaseShenzhenChina
| | - Yang Liu
- Medical Research CenterSouthern University of Science and Technology HospitalShenzhenChina
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Otero-Olarra JE, Díaz-Cárdenas G, Aguilera-Arreola MG, Curiel-Quesada E, Pérez-Valdespino A. Aeromonas trota Is Highly Refractory to Acquire Exogenous Genetic Material. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1091. [PMID: 38930473 PMCID: PMC11206119 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Aeromonas trota is sensitive to most antibiotics and the sole species of this genus susceptible to ampicillin. This susceptibility profile could be related to its inability to acquire exogenous DNA. In this study, A. trota isolates were analyzed to establish their capacity to incorporate foreign DNA. Fourteen strains were identified as A. trota by multilocus phylogenetic analysis (MLPA). Minimal inhibitory concentrations of antibiotics (MIC) were assessed, confirming the susceptibility to most antibiotics tested. To explore their capacity to be transformed, A. trota strains were used as recipients in different horizontal transfer assays. Results showed that around fifty percent of A. trota strains were able to incorporate pBAMD1-2 and pBBR1MCS-3 plasmids after conjugal transfer. In all instances, conjugation frequencies were very low. Interestingly, several isoforms of plasmid pBBR1MCS-3 were observed in transconjugants. Strains could not receive pAr-32, a native plasmid from A. salmonicida. A. trota strains were unable to receive DNA by means of electroporation, natural transformation or vesiduction. These results confirm that A. trota species are extremely refractory to horizontal gene transfer, which could be associated to plasmid instability resulting from oligomerization or to the presence of defense systems against exogenous genetic material in their genomes. To explain the poor results of horizontal gene transfer (HGT), selected genomes were sequenced and analyzed, revealing the presence of defense systems, which could prevent the stable incorporation of exogenous DNA in A. trota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Erick Otero-Olarra
- Department of Biochemistry, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Prolongación de Carpio y Plan de Ayala S/N, Col. Santo Tomás, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (J.E.O.-O.); (G.D.-C.)
| | - Gilda Díaz-Cárdenas
- Department of Biochemistry, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Prolongación de Carpio y Plan de Ayala S/N, Col. Santo Tomás, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (J.E.O.-O.); (G.D.-C.)
| | - Ma Guadalupe Aguilera-Arreola
- Department of Microbiology, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Prolongación de Carpio y Plan de Ayala S/N, Col. Santo Tomás, Mexico City 11340, Mexico;
| | - Everardo Curiel-Quesada
- Department of Biochemistry, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Prolongación de Carpio y Plan de Ayala S/N, Col. Santo Tomás, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (J.E.O.-O.); (G.D.-C.)
| | - Abigail Pérez-Valdespino
- Department of Biochemistry, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Prolongación de Carpio y Plan de Ayala S/N, Col. Santo Tomás, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (J.E.O.-O.); (G.D.-C.)
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Martínez M, Rizzuto I, Molina R. Knowing Our Enemy in the Antimicrobial Resistance Era: Dissecting the Molecular Basis of Bacterial Defense Systems. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4929. [PMID: 38732145 PMCID: PMC11084316 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacteria and their phage adversaries are engaged in an ongoing arms race, resulting in the development of a broad antiphage arsenal and corresponding viral countermeasures. In recent years, the identification and utilization of CRISPR-Cas systems have driven a renewed interest in discovering and characterizing antiphage mechanisms, revealing a richer diversity than initially anticipated. Currently, these defense systems can be categorized based on the bacteria's strategy associated with the infection cycle stage. Thus, bacterial defense systems can degrade the invading genetic material, trigger an abortive infection, or inhibit genome replication. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of processes related to bacterial immunity has significant implications for phage-based therapies and the development of new biotechnological tools. This review aims to comprehensively cover these processes, with a focus on the most recent discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rafael Molina
- Department of Crystallography and Structural Biology, Instituto de Química-Física Blas Cabrera, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28006 Madrid, Spain
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10
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Gulati P, Singh A, Patra S, Bhat S, Verma A. Restriction modification systems in archaea: A panoramic outlook. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27382. [PMID: 38644887 PMCID: PMC11033074 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Restriction modification (RM) systems are one of the ubiquitous yet primitive defense responses employed by bacteria and archaea with the primary role of safeguarding themselves against invading bacteriophages. Protection of the host occurs by the cleavage of the invading foreign DNA via restriction endonucleases with concomitant methylation of host DNA with the aid of a methyltransferase counterpart. RM systems have been extensively studied in bacteria, however, in the case of archaea there are limited reports of RM enzymes that are investigated to date owing to their inhospitable growth demands. This review aims to broaden the knowledge about what is known about the diversity of RM systems in archaea and encapsulate the current knowledge on restriction and modification enzymes characterized in archaea so far and the role of RM systems in the milieu of archaeal biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallavi Gulati
- Department of Microbiology, Ram Lal Anand College, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Ashish Singh
- Department of Microbiology, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Sandeep Patra
- Department of Microbiology, Ram Lal Anand College, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Shreyas Bhat
- Department of Microbiology, Ram Lal Anand College, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Anil Verma
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA-15213, USA
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11
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Savijoki K, Deptula P, Roberts RJ, Hammarén M, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Varmanen P, Parikka M. Revised whole genome and DNA methylome of Mycobacterium marinum type strain ATCC 927 T. Microbiol Resour Announc 2024; 13:e0101623. [PMID: 38415640 PMCID: PMC11008211 DOI: 10.1128/mra.01016-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium marinum, a slow-growing Actinobacterium, typically induces tuberculosis-like disease in fish. Here, we report a new reference sequence for M. marinum ATCC 927T, along with its DNA methylome. This aims to maximize the research potential of this type strain and facilitates investigations into the pathomechanisms of human tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsi Savijoki
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Paulina Deptula
- Department of Food Science (FOOD), University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | | | - Milka Hammarén
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pekka Varmanen
- Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mataleena Parikka
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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12
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Albert P, Varga B, Ferenc G, Kiss A. Conversion of the CG specific M.MpeI DNA methyltransferase into an enzyme predominantly methylating CCA and CCC sites. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:1896-1908. [PMID: 38164970 PMCID: PMC10899764 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
We used structure guided mutagenesis and directed enzyme evolution to alter the specificity of the CG specific bacterial DNA (cytosine-5) methyltransferase M.MpeI. Methylation specificity of the M.MpeI variants was characterized by digestions with methylation sensitive restriction enzymes and by measuring incorporation of tritiated methyl groups into double-stranded oligonucleotides containing single CC, CG, CA or CT sites. Site specific mutagenesis steps designed to disrupt the specific contacts between the enzyme and the non-substrate base pair of the target sequence (5'-CG/5'-CG) yielded M.MpeI variants with varying levels of CG specific and increasing levels of CA and CC specific MTase activity. Subsequent random mutagenesis of the target recognizing domain coupled with selection for non-CG specific methylation yielded a variant, which predominantly methylates CC dinucleotides, has very low activity on CG and CA sites, and no activity on CT sites. This M.MpeI variant contains a one amino acid deletion (ΔA323) and three substitutions (N324G, R326G and E305N) in the target recognition domain. The mutant enzyme has very strong preference for A and C in the 3' flanking position making it a CCA and CCC specific DNA methyltransferase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pál Albert
- Laboratory of DNA-Protein Interactions, Institute of Biochemistry, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bence Varga
- Laboratory of DNA-Protein Interactions, Institute of Biochemistry, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
- Nucleic Acid Synthesis Laboratory, Institute of Plant Biology, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Györgyi Ferenc
- Nucleic Acid Synthesis Laboratory, Institute of Plant Biology, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Antal Kiss
- Laboratory of DNA-Protein Interactions, Institute of Biochemistry, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
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Patakova P, Vasylkivska M, Sedlar K, Jureckova K, Bezdicek M, Lovecka P, Branska B, Kastanek P, Krofta K. Whole genome sequencing and characterization of Pantoea agglomerans DBM 3797, endophyte, isolated from fresh hop ( Humulus lupulus L.). Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1305338. [PMID: 38389535 PMCID: PMC10882544 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1305338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This paper brings new information about the genome and phenotypic characteristics of Pantoea agglomerans strain DBM 3797, isolated from fresh Czech hop (Humulus lupulus) in the Saaz hop-growing region. Although P. agglomerans strains are frequently isolated from different materials, there are not usually thoroughly characterized even if they have versatile metabolism and those isolated from plants may have a considerable potential for application in agriculture as a support culture for plant growth. Methods P. agglomerans DBM 3797 was cultured under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, its metabolites were analyzed by HPLC and it was tested for plant growth promotion abilities, such as phosphate solubilization, siderophore and indol-3-acetic acid productions. In addition, genomic DNA was extracted, sequenced and de novo assembly was performed. Further, genome annotation, pan-genome analysis and selected genome analyses, such as CRISPR arrays detection, antibiotic resistance and secondary metabolite genes identification were carried out. Results and discussion The typical appearance characteristics of the strain include the formation of symplasmata in submerged liquid culture and the formation of pale yellow colonies on agar. The genetic information of the strain (in total 4.8 Mb) is divided between a chromosome and two plasmids. The strain lacks any CRISPR-Cas system but is equipped with four restriction-modification systems. The phenotypic analysis focused on growth under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, as well as traits associated with plant growth promotion. At both levels (genomic and phenotypic), the production of siderophores, indoleacetic acid-derived growth promoters, gluconic acid, and enzyme activities related to the degradation of complex organic compounds were found. Extracellular gluconic acid production under aerobic conditions (up to 8 g/l) is probably the result of glucose oxidation by the membrane-bound pyrroloquinoline quinone-dependent enzyme glucose dehydrogenase. The strain has a number of properties potentially beneficial to the hop plant and its closest relatives include the strains also isolated from the aerial parts of plants, yet its safety profile needs to be addressed in follow-up research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Patakova
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Maryna Vasylkivska
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Karel Sedlar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Informatics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Katerina Jureckova
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czechia
| | - Matej Bezdicek
- Department of Internal Medicine-Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Internal Medicine-Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Petra Lovecka
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Barbora Branska
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | | | - Karel Krofta
- Hop Research Institute, Co. Ltd., Zatec, Czechia
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14
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Zhao H, Ma J, Tang Y, Ma X, Li J, Li H, Liu Z. Genome-wide DNA N6-methyladenosine in Aeromonas veronii and Helicobacter pylori. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:161. [PMID: 38331763 PMCID: PMC10854192 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10074-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND DNA N6-methyladenosine (6mA), as an important epigenetic modification, widely exists in bacterial genomes and participates in the regulation of toxicity, antibiotic resistance, and antioxidant. With the continuous development of sequencing technology, more 6mA sites have been identified in bacterial genomes, but few studies have focused on the distribution characteristics of 6mA at the whole-genome level and its association with gene expression and function. RESULTS This study conducted an in-depth analysis of the 6mA in the genomes of two pathogenic bacteria, Aeromonas veronii and Helicobacter pylori. The results showed that the 6mA was widely distributed in both strains. In A. veronii, 6mA sites were enriched at 3' end of protein-coding genes, exhibiting a certain inhibitory effect on gene expression. Genes with low 6mA density were associated with cell motility. While in H. pylori, 6mA sites were enriched at 5' end of protein-coding genes, potentially enhancing gene expression. Genes with low 6mA density were closely related to defense mechanism. CONCLUSIONS This study elucidated the distribution characteristics of 6mA in A. veronii and H. pylori, highlighting the effects of 6mA on gene expression and function. These findings provide valuable insights into the epigenetic regulation and functional characteristics of A. veronii and H. pylori.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honghao Zhao
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Jiayue Ma
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Yanqiong Tang
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Xiang Ma
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Juanjuan Li
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Hong Li
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China.
| | - Zhu Liu
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China.
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15
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Shi C, Wang L, Xu H, Zhao Y, Tian B, Hua Y. Characterization of a Novel N4-Methylcytosine Restriction-Modification System in Deinococcus radiodurans. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1660. [PMID: 38338939 PMCID: PMC10855626 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Deinococcus radiodurans is an extremophilic microorganism that possesses a unique DNA damage repair system, conferring a strong resistance to radiation, desiccation, oxidative stress, and chemical damage. Recently, we discovered that D. radiodurans possesses an N4-methylation (m4C) methyltransferase called M.DraR1, which recognizes the 5'-CCGCGG-3' sequence and methylates the second cytosine. Here, we revealed its cognate restriction endonuclease R.DraR1 and recognized that it is the only endonuclease specially for non-4C-methylated 5'-CCGCGG-3' sequence so far. We designated the particular m4C R.DraR1-M.DraR1 as the DraI R-M system. Bioinformatics searches displayed the rarity of the DraI R-M homologous system. Meanwhile, recombination and transformation efficiency experiments demonstrated the important role of the DraI R-M system in response to oxidative stress. In addition, in vitro activity experiments showed that R.DraR1 could exceptionally cleave DNA substrates with a m5C-methlated 5'-CCGCGG-3' sequence instead of its routine activity, suggesting that this particular R-M component possesses a broader substrate choice. Furthermore, an imbalance of the DraI R-M system led to cell death through regulating genes involved in the maintenance of cell survival such as genome stability, transporter, and energy production. Thus, our research revealed a novel m4C R-M system that plays key roles in maintaining cell viability and defending foreign DNA in D. radiodurans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxiang Shi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Institute of Biophysics, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (C.S.); (H.X.); (Y.Z.); (B.T.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Liangyan Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Institute of Biophysics, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (C.S.); (H.X.); (Y.Z.); (B.T.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Hong Xu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Institute of Biophysics, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (C.S.); (H.X.); (Y.Z.); (B.T.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ye Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Institute of Biophysics, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (C.S.); (H.X.); (Y.Z.); (B.T.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Bing Tian
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Institute of Biophysics, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (C.S.); (H.X.); (Y.Z.); (B.T.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yuejin Hua
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Institute of Biophysics, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (C.S.); (H.X.); (Y.Z.); (B.T.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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16
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Flores-Fernández CN, Lin D, Robins K, O'Callaghan CA. DNA methylases for site-selective inhibition of type IIS restriction enzyme activity. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:174. [PMID: 38270650 PMCID: PMC10810934 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13015-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
DNA methylases of the restriction-modifications (R-M) systems are promising enzymes for the development of novel molecular and synthetic biology tools. Their use in vitro enables the deployment of independent and controlled catalytic reactions. This work aimed to produce recombinant DNA methylases belonging to the R-M systems, capable of in vitro inhibition of the type IIS restriction enzymes BsaI, BpiI, or LguI. Non-switchable methylases are those whose recognition sequences fully overlap the recognition sequences of their associated endonuclease. In switch methylases, the methylase and endonuclease recognition sequences only partially overlap, allowing sequence engineering to alter methylation without altering restriction. In this work, ten methylases from type I and II R-M systems were selected for cloning and expression in E. coli strains tolerant to methylation. Isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) concentrations and post-induction temperatures were tested to optimize the soluble methylases expression, which was achieved with 0.5 mM IPTG at 20 °C. The C-terminal His6-Tag versions showed better expression than the N-terminal tagged versions. DNA methylation was analyzed using purified methylases and custom test plasmids which, after the methylation reactions, were digested using the corresponding associated type IIS endonuclease. The non-switchable methylases M2.Eco31I, M2.BsaI, M2.HpyAII, and M1.MboII along with the switch methylases M.Osp807II and M2.NmeMC58II showed the best activity for site-selective inhibition of type IIS restriction enzyme activity. This work demonstrates that our recombinant methylases were able to block the activity of type IIS endonucleases in vitro, allowing them to be developed as valuable tools in synthetic biology and DNA assembly techniques. KEY POINTS: • Non-switchable methylases always inhibit the relevant type IIS endonuclease activity • Switch methylases inhibit the relevant type IIS endonuclease activity depending on the sequence engineering of their recognition site • Recombinant non-switchable and switch methylases were active in vitro and can be deployed as tools in synthetic biology and DNA assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol N Flores-Fernández
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Da Lin
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
- Current address: Triple Helix Biotechnology Ltd, Moneta Building (B280), Babraham Research Campus, Babraham, Cambridge, CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Katherine Robins
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
- Current address: Complete Regulatory, 19-20 King Edward Street, Macclesfield, SK10 1AQ, UK
| | - Chris A O'Callaghan
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK.
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17
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Godoy M, Montes de Oca M, Suarez R, Martinez A, Pontigo JP, Caro D, Kusch K, Coca Y, Bohle H, Bayliss S, Kibenge M, Kibenge F. Genomics of Re-Emergent Aeromonas salmonicida in Atlantic Salmon Outbreaks. Microorganisms 2023; 12:64. [PMID: 38257891 PMCID: PMC10819690 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Furunculosis, caused by Aeromonas salmonicida, poses a significant threat to both salmonid and non-salmonid fish in diverse aquatic environments. This study explores the genomic intricacies of re-emergent A. salmonicida outbreaks in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Previous clinical cases have exhibited pathological characteristics, such as periorbital hemorrhages and gastrointestinal abnormalities. Genomic sequencing of three Chilean isolates (ASA04, ASA05, and CIBA_5017) and 25 previously described genomes determined the pan-genome, phylogenomics, insertion sequences, and restriction-modification systems. Unique gene families have contributed to an improved understanding of the psychrophilic and mesophilic clades, while phylogenomic analysis has been used to identify mesophilic and psychrophilic strains, thereby further differentiating between typical and atypical psychrophilic isolates. Diverse insertion sequences and restriction-modification patterns have highlighted genomic structural differences, and virulence factor predictions can emphasize exotoxin disparities, especially between psychrophilic and mesophilic strains. Thus, a novel plasmid was characterized which emphasized the role of plasmids in virulence and antibiotic resistance. The analysis of antibiotic resistance factors revealed resistance against various drug classes in Chilean strains. Overall, this study elucidates the genomic dynamics of re-emergent A. salmonicida and provides novel insights into their virulence, antibiotic resistance, and population structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Godoy
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Aplicadas (CIBA), Puerto Montt 5501842, Chile; (M.M.d.O.); (D.C.); (K.K.)
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Aplicada, Facultad de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad San Sebastián, Sede de la Patagonia, Puerto Montt 5480000, Chile
| | - Marco Montes de Oca
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Aplicadas (CIBA), Puerto Montt 5501842, Chile; (M.M.d.O.); (D.C.); (K.K.)
| | - Rudy Suarez
- Programa de Magíster en Acuicultura, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Coquimbo 1780000, Chile;
| | - Alexis Martinez
- ATC Patagonia S/N, Carretera Austral, Puerto Montt 5480000, Chile;
| | - Juan Pablo Pontigo
- Laboratorio Institucional, Facultad de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad San Sebastián, Lago Panguipulli 1390, Puerto Montt 5501842, Chile;
| | - Diego Caro
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Aplicadas (CIBA), Puerto Montt 5501842, Chile; (M.M.d.O.); (D.C.); (K.K.)
| | - Karina Kusch
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Aplicadas (CIBA), Puerto Montt 5501842, Chile; (M.M.d.O.); (D.C.); (K.K.)
| | - Yoandy Coca
- Doctorado en Ciencias de la Ingeniería, Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Bioprocesos, Escuela de Ingeniería, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Avenida Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Santiago 7820436, Chile;
| | - Harry Bohle
- Laboratorio InnovoGen, Egaña 198 Piso 2, Puerto Montt 5502534, Chile;
| | - Sion Bayliss
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1QU, UK;
| | - Molly Kibenge
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada; (M.K.); (F.K.)
| | - Frederick Kibenge
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada; (M.K.); (F.K.)
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18
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Zhang Y, Takaki Y, Yoshida-Takashima Y, Hiraoka S, Kurosawa K, Nunoura T, Takai K. A sequential one-pot approach for rapid and convenient characterization of putative restriction-modification systems. mSystems 2023; 8:e0081723. [PMID: 37843256 PMCID: PMC10734518 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00817-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The elucidation of the molecular basis of virus-host coevolutionary interactions is boosted with state-of-the-art sequencing technologies. However, the sequence-only information is often insufficient to output a conclusive argument without biochemical characterizations. We proposed a 1-day and one-pot approach to confirm the exact function of putative restriction-modification (R-M) genes that presumably mediate microbial coevolution. The experiments mainly focused on a series of putative R-M enzymes from a deep-sea virus and its host bacterium. The results quickly unveiled unambiguous substrate specificities, superior catalytic performance, and unique sequence preferences for two new restriction enzymes (capable of cleaving DNA) and two new methyltransferases (capable of modifying DNA with methyl groups). The reality of the functional R-M system reinforced a model of mutually beneficial interactions with the virus in the deep-sea microbial ecosystem. The cell culture-independent approach also holds great potential for exploring novel and biotechnologically significant R-M enzymes from microbial dark matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- SUGAR Program, X-star, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Yokosuka, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Takaki
- SUGAR Program, X-star, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Yokosuka, Japan
| | - Yukari Yoshida-Takashima
- SUGAR Program, X-star, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Yokosuka, Japan
| | - Satoshi Hiraoka
- Research Center for Bioscience and Nanoscience (CeBN), MRU, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Yokosuka, Japan
| | - Kanako Kurosawa
- SUGAR Program, X-star, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Yokosuka, Japan
| | - Takuro Nunoura
- Research Center for Bioscience and Nanoscience (CeBN), MRU, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Yokosuka, Japan
| | - Ken Takai
- SUGAR Program, X-star, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Yokosuka, Japan
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Truchon AR, Chase EE, Gann ER, Moniruzzaman M, Creasey BA, Aylward FO, Xiao C, Gobler CJ, Wilhelm SW. Kratosvirus quantuckense: the history and novelty of an algal bloom disrupting virus and a model for giant virus research. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1284617. [PMID: 38098665 PMCID: PMC10720644 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1284617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of the first "giant virus," particular attention has been paid toward isolating and culturing these large DNA viruses through Acanthamoeba spp. bait systems. While this method has allowed for the discovery of plenty novel viruses in the Nucleocytoviricota, environmental -omics-based analyses have shown that there is a wealth of diversity among this phylum, particularly in marine datasets. The prevalence of these viruses in metatranscriptomes points toward their ecological importance in nutrient turnover in our oceans and as such, in depth study into non-amoebal Nucleocytoviricota should be considered a focal point in viral ecology. In this review, we report on Kratosvirus quantuckense (née Aureococcus anophagefferens Virus), an algae-infecting virus of the Imitervirales. Current systems for study in the Nucleocytoviricota differ significantly from this virus and its relatives, and a litany of trade-offs within physiology, coding potential, and ecology compared to these other viruses reveal the importance of K. quantuckense. Herein, we review the research that has been performed on this virus as well as its potential as a model system for algal-virus interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R Truchon
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Emily E Chase
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Eric R Gann
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD, United States
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Surgical Critical Care Initiative (SC2i), Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Mohammad Moniruzzaman
- Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Brooke A Creasey
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Frank O Aylward
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Chuan Xiao
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
| | | | - Steven W Wilhelm
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
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20
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Prešern U, Goličnik M. Enzyme Databases in the Era of Omics and Artificial Intelligence. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16918. [PMID: 38069254 PMCID: PMC10707154 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Enzyme research is important for the development of various scientific fields such as medicine and biotechnology. Enzyme databases facilitate this research by providing a wide range of information relevant to research planning and data analysis. Over the years, various databases that cover different aspects of enzyme biology (e.g., kinetic parameters, enzyme occurrence, and reaction mechanisms) have been developed. Most of the databases are curated manually, which improves reliability of the information; however, such curation cannot keep pace with the exponential growth in published data. Lack of data standardization is another obstacle for data extraction and analysis. Improving machine readability of databases is especially important in the light of recent advances in deep learning algorithms that require big training datasets. This review provides information regarding the current state of enzyme databases, especially in relation to the ever-increasing amount of generated research data and recent advancements in artificial intelligence algorithms. Furthermore, it describes several enzyme databases, providing the reader with necessary information for their use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marko Goličnik
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
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21
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Vilkaitis G, Masevičius V, Kriukienė E, Klimašauskas S. Chemical Expansion of the Methyltransferase Reaction: Tools for DNA Labeling and Epigenome Analysis. Acc Chem Res 2023; 56:3188-3197. [PMID: 37904501 PMCID: PMC10666283 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.3c00471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
DNA is the genetic matter of life composed of four major nucleotides which can be further furnished with biologically important covalent modifications. Among the variety of enzymes involved in DNA metabolism, AdoMet-dependent methyltransferases (MTases) combine the recognition of specific sequences and covalent methylation of a target nucleotide. The naturally transferred methyl groups play important roles in biological signaling, but they are poor physical reporters and largely resistant to chemical derivatization. Therefore, an obvious strategy to unlock the practical utility of the methyltransferase reactions is to enable the transfer of "prederivatized" (extended) versions of the methyl group.However, previous enzymatic studies of extended AdoMet analogs indicated that the transalkylation reactions are drastically impaired as the size of the carbon chain increases. In collaborative efforts, we proposed that, akin to enhanced SN2 reactivity of allylic and propargylic systems, addition of a π orbital next to the transferable carbon atom might confer the needed activation of the reaction. Indeed, we found that MTase-catalyzed transalkylations of DNA with cofactors containing a double or a triple C-C bond in the β position occurred in a robust and sequence-specific manner. Altogether, this breakthrough approach named mTAG (methyltransferase-directed transfer of activated groups) has proven instrumental for targeted labeling of DNA and other types of biomolecules (using appropriate MTases) including RNA and proteins.Our further work focused on the propargylic cofactors and their reactions with DNA cytosine-5 MTases, a class of MTases common for both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Here, we learned that the 4-X-but-2-yn-1-yl (X = polar group) cofactors suffered from a rapid loss of activity in aqueous buffers due to susceptibility of the triple bond to hydration. This problem was remedied by synthetically increasing the separation between X and the triple bond from one to three carbon units (6-X-hex-2-ynyl cofactors). To further optimize the transfer of the bulkier groups, we performed structure-guided engineering of the MTase cofactor pocket. Alanine replacements of two conserved residues conferred substantial improvements of the transalkylation activity with M.HhaI and three other engineered bacterial C5-MTases. Of particular interest were CpG-specific DNA MTases (M.SssI), which proved valuable tools for studies of mammalian methylomes and chemical probing of DNA function.Inspired by the successful repurposing of bacterial enzymes, we turned to more complex mammalian C5-MTases (Dnmt1, Dnmt3A, and Dnmt3B) and asked if they could ultimately lead to mTAG labeling inside mammalian cells. Our efforts to engineer mouse Dnmt1 produced a variant (Dnmt1*) that enabled efficient Dnmt1-directed deposition of 6-azide-hexynyl groups on DNA in vitro. CRISPR-Cas9 editing of the corresponding codons in the genomic Dnmt1 alleles established endogenous expression of Dnmt1* in mouse embryonic stem cells. To circumvent the poor cellular uptake of AdoMet and its analogs, we elaborated their efficient internalization by electroporation, which has finally enabled selective catalysis-dependent azide tagging of natural Dnmt1 targets in live mammalian cells. The deposited chemical groups were then exploited as "click" handles for reading adjoining sequences and precise genomic mapping of the methylation sites. These findings offer unprecedented inroads into studies of DNA methylation in a wide range of eukaryotic model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giedrius Vilkaitis
- Institute
of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Viktoras Masevičius
- Institute
of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Institute
of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, LT-03225 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Edita Kriukienė
- Institute
of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Saulius Klimašauskas
- Institute
of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
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22
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Yang P, Yang J, Lin T, Liu Q, Yin Y, Chen D, Yang S. Efficient Genome Editing in Most Staphylococcus aureus by Using the Restriction-Modification System Silent CRISPR-Cas9 Toolkit. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:3340-3351. [PMID: 37830328 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a clinically important pathogen that threatens human health due to its strong pathogenicity and drug resistance, leading to meningitis, endocarditis, and skin and soft tissue infections. Genetic manipulation in S. aureus is a powerful approach for characterizing the molecular mechanisms of bacterial drug resistance, pathogenicity, and virulence. However, a strong restriction barrier presents a major obstacle to the extensive utilization of genetic manipulation tools in clinical isolates of S. aureus. Here, we constructed a restriction-modification (RM) system silent CRISPR-Cas9 toolkit that synonymously eliminated the type I RM targets of S. aureus from plasmids, downsized plasmids using minicircle technology, and combined with a plasmid artificial modification (PAM) method to circumvent the type II RM system. The RM-silent CRISPR-Cas9 toolkit enables a significant improvement in transformation (105-106 transformants per microgram plasmid in strains we tested) and high-success efficiency editing for gene deletion (knockout strain obtained in one-round electroporation) in a wide range of S. aureus species including clinical isolates of unknown genetic background. The RM-silent CRISPR-Cas9 toolkits could expedite the process of mutant construction in most S. aureus strains, and this approach could be applied to the design of other genetic toolkit plasmids for utilization in a wider range of S. aureus strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Junjie Yang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ting Lin
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Qi Liu
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yu Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Daijie Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Sheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
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Taton A, Gilderman TS, Ernst DC, Omaga CA, Cohen LA, Rey-Bedon C, Golden JW, Golden SS. Synechococcus elongatus Argonaute reduces natural transformation efficiency and provides immunity against exogenous plasmids. mBio 2023; 14:e0184323. [PMID: 37791787 PMCID: PMC10653904 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01843-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE S. elongatus is an important cyanobacterial model organism for the study of its prokaryotic circadian clock, photosynthesis, and other biological processes. It is also widely used for genetic engineering to produce renewable biochemicals. Our findings reveal an SeAgo-based defense mechanism in S. elongatus against the horizontal transfer of genetic material. We demonstrate that deletion of the ago gene facilitates genetic studies and genetic engineering of S. elongatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Taton
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Tami S. Gilderman
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Dustin C. Ernst
- Center for Circadian Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Carla A. Omaga
- Center for Circadian Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Lucas A. Cohen
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Camilo Rey-Bedon
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - James W. Golden
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Susan S. Golden
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Circadian Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Wozniak CE, Hughes KT, Liou TG. Mutations in the C-terminal region of the bacteriophage exclusion protein PglX can selectively inactivate restriction in Salmonella. J Bacteriol 2023; 205:e0020723. [PMID: 37730541 PMCID: PMC10601704 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00207-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium strain LT2 is protected by two DNA restriction-modification systems (HsdRMS and Mod-Res) and a Type I bacteriophage exclusion (BREX) system (BrxA-L). The LB5000 strain was constructed to inactivate restriction but not methylation in all three systems and has been available for decades (L. R. Bullas and J. I. Ryu, J Bacteriol 156:471-474, 1983, https://doi.org/10.1128/jb.156.1.471-474.1983). However, this strain had been heavily mutagenized and contains hundreds of other mutations, including a few in DNA repair genes. Here, we describe the development of a strain that is only mutated for DNA restriction by the three systems and remains competent for DNA modification. We transferred mutations specific to DNA restriction from LB5000 to a wild-type LT2 background. The hsdR and res mutations affected only restriction in the wild-type background, but the brxC and pglZ mutations for the poorly understood BREX system also reduced modification. Amino acids in an unannotated conserved region of PglX in the BREX system were then randomized. Mutations were identified that specifically affected restriction at 37°C but were found to be temperature sensitive for restriction and methylation when tested at 30°C and 42°C. These mutations in PglX are consistent with a domain that communicates DNA methylation information to other BREX effector proteins. Finally, mutations generated in the specificity domain of PglX may have changed the DNA binding site recognized by the BREX system. IMPORTANCE The restriction system mutants constructed in this study will be useful for cloning DNA and transferring plasmids from other bacterial species into Salmonella. We verified which mutations in strain LB5000 resulted in loss of restriction for each restriction-modification system and the BREX system by moving these mutations to a wild-type Salmonella background. The methylase PglX was then mutagenized, which adds to our knowledge of the BREX system that is found in many bacteria but is not well understood. These PglX mutations affected restriction and methylation at different temperatures, which suggests that the C-terminal region of PglX may coordinate interactions between the methylase and other BREX system proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kelly T. Hughes
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Theodore G. Liou
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Center for Quantitative Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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25
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Santoshi M, Engleng B, Eligar SM, Ratnakar IS, Nagamalleshwari E, Nagaraja V. Identification and characterization of a new HNH restriction endonuclease with unusual properties. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2023; 107:6263-6275. [PMID: 37626186 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12717-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Restriction-modification (R-M) systems form a large superfamily constituting bacterial innate immunity mechanism. The restriction endonucleases (REases) are very diverse in subunit structure, DNA recognition, co-factor requirement, and mechanism of action. Among the different catalytic motifs, HNH active sites containing REases are the second largest group distinguished by the presence of the ββα-metal finger fold. KpnI is the first member of the HNH-family REases whose homologs are present in many bacteria of Enterobacteriaceae having varied degrees of sequence similarity between them. Considering that the homologs with a high similarity may have retained KpnI-like properties, while those with a low similarity could be different, we have characterized a distant KpnI homolog present in a pathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae NTUH K2044. A comparison of the properties of KpnI and KpnK revealed that despite their similarity and the HNH motif, these two enzymes have different properties viz oligomerization, cleavage pattern, metal ion requirement, recognition sequence, and sequence specificity. Unlike KpnI, KpnK is a monomer in solution, nicks double-stranded DNA, recognizes degenerate sequence, and catalyses the degradation of DNA into smaller products after the initial cleavage at preferred sites. Due to several distinctive properties, it can be classified as a variant of the Type IIS enzyme having nicking endonuclease activity. KEY POINTS: • KpnK is a distant homolog of KpnI and belongs to the ββα-metal finger superfamily. • Both KpnI and KpnK have widespread occurrence in K. pneumoniae strains. • KpnK is a Type IIS restriction endonuclease with a single-strand nicking property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghna Santoshi
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Bharat Engleng
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Sachin M Eligar
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Immadi Siva Ratnakar
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Easa Nagamalleshwari
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Valakunja Nagaraja
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India.
- Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore, India.
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Anton BP, Roberts RJ. A Survey of Archaeal Restriction-Modification Systems. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2424. [PMID: 37894082 PMCID: PMC10609329 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11102424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
When compared with bacteria, relatively little is known about the restriction-modification (RM) systems of archaea, particularly those in taxa outside of the haloarchaea. To improve our understanding of archaeal RM systems, we surveyed REBASE, the restriction enzyme database, to catalog what is known about the genes and activities present in the 519 completely sequenced archaeal genomes currently deposited there. For 49 (9.4%) of these genomes, we also have methylome data from Single-Molecule Real-Time (SMRT) sequencing that reveal the target recognition sites of the active m6A and m4C DNA methyltransferases (MTases). The gene-finding pipeline employed by REBASE is trained primarily on bacterial examples and so will look for similar genes in archaea. Nonetheless, the organizational structure and protein sequence of RM systems from archaea are highly similar to those of bacteria, with both groups acquiring systems from a shared genetic pool through horizontal gene transfer. As in bacteria, we observe numerous examples of "persistent" DNA MTases conserved within archaeal taxa at different levels. We experimentally validated two homologous members of one of the largest "persistent" MTase groups, revealing that methylation of C(m5C)WGG sites may play a key epigenetic role in Crenarchaea. Throughout the archaea, genes encoding m6A, m4C, and m5C DNA MTases, respectively, occur in approximately the ratio 4:2:1.
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Ambros CL, Ehrmann MA. Distribution, inducibility, and characteristics of Latilactobacillus curvatus temperate phages. MICROBIOME RESEARCH REPORTS 2023; 2:34. [PMID: 38045928 PMCID: PMC10688831 DOI: 10.20517/mrr.2023.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Aim: Temperate phages are known to heavily impact the growth of their host, be it in a positive way, e.g., when beneficial genes are provided by the phage, or negatively when lysis occurs after prophage induction. This study provides an in-depth look into the distribution and variety of prophages in Latilactobacillus curvatus (L. curvatus). This species is found in a wide variety of ecological niches and is routinely used as a meat starter culture. Methods: Fourty five L. curvatus genomes were screened for prophages. The intact predicted prophages and their chromosomal integration loci were described. Six L. curvatus lysogens were analysed for phage-mediated lysis post induction via UV light and/or mitomycin C. Their lysates were analysed for phage particles via viral DNA sequencing and transmission electron microscopy. Results: Two hundred and six prophage sequences of any completeness were detected within L. curvatus genomes. The 50 as intact predicted prophages show high levels of genetic diversity on an intraspecies level with conserved regions mostly in the replication and head/tail gene clusters. Twelve chromosomal loci, mostly tRNA genes, were identified, where intact L. curvatus phages were integrated. The six analysed L. curvatus lysogens showed strain-dependent lysis in various degrees after induction, yet only four of their lysates appeared to contain fully assembled virions with the siphovirus morphotype. Conclusion: Our data demonstrate that L. curvatus is a (pro)phage-susceptible species, harbouring multiple intact prophages and remnant sequences thereof. This knowledge provides a basis to study phage-host interaction influencing microbial communities in food fermentations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthias A. Ehrmann
- Chair of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Technical University Munich (TUM), Freising 85354, Germany
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28
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Youngblom MA, Imhoff MR, Smyth LM, Mohamed MA, Pepperell CS. Portrait of a generalist bacterium: pathoadaptation, metabolic specialization and extreme environments shape diversity of Staphylococcus saprophyticus. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.18.553882. [PMID: 37645846 PMCID: PMC10462137 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.18.553882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus saprophyticus is a Gram-positive, coagulase-negative staphylococcus found in diverse environments including soil and freshwater, meat, and dairy foods. S. saprophyticus is also an important cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in humans, and mastitis in cattle. However, the genetic determinants of virulence have not yet been identified, and it remains unclear whether there are distinct sub-populations adapted to human and animal hosts. Using a diverse sample of S. saprophyticus isolates from food, animals, environmental sources, and human infections, we characterized the population structure and diversity of global populations of S. saprophyticus . We found that divergence of the two major clades of S. saprophyticus is likely facilitated by barriers to horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and differences in metabolism. Using genome-wide association study (GWAS) tools we identified the first Type VII secretion system (T7SS) described in S. saprophyticus and its association with bovine mastitis. Finally, we found that in general, strains of S. saprophyticus from different niches are genetically similar with the exception of built environments, which function as a 'sink' for S. saprophyticus populations. This work increases our understanding of the ecology of S. saprophyticus and of the genomics of bacterial generalists. Data summary Raw sequencing data for newly sequenced S. saprophyticus isolates have been deposited to the NCBI SRA under the project accession PRJNA928770. A list of all genomes used in this work and their associated metadata are available in the supplementary material. Custom scripts used in the comparative genomics and GWAS analyses are available here: https://github.com/myoungblom/sapro_genomics . Impact statement It is not known whether human and cattle diseases caused by S. saprophyticus represent spillover events from a generalist adapted to survive in a range of environments, or whether the capacity to cause disease represents a specific adaptation. Seasonal cycles of S. saprophyticus UTIs and molecular epidemiological evidence suggest that these infections may be environmentally-acquired rather than via transmission from person to person. Using comparative genomics and genome wide association study tools, we found that S. saprophyticus appears adapted to inhabit a wide range of environments (generalist), with isolates from animals, food, natural environments and human infections being closely related. Bacteria that routinely switch environments, particularly between humans and animals, are of particular concern when it comes to the spread of antibiotic resistance from farm environments into human populations. This work provides a framework for comparative genomic analyses of bacterial generalists and furthers our understanding of how bacterial populations move between humans, animals, and the environment.
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Li Z, Zhou X, Liao D, Liu R, Zhao X, Wang J, Zhong Q, Zeng Z, Peng Y, Tan Y, Yang Z. Comparative genomics and DNA methylation analysis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolate PA3 by single-molecule real-time sequencing reveals new targets for antimicrobials. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1180194. [PMID: 37662009 PMCID: PMC10471985 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1180194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P.aeruginosa) is an important opportunistic pathogen with broad environmental adaptability and complex drug resistance. Single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing technique has longer read-length sequences, more accuracy, and the ability to identify epigenetic DNA alterations. Methods This study applied SMRT technology to sequence a clinical strain P. aeruginosa PA3 to obtain its genome sequence and methylation modification information. Genomic, comparative, pan-genomic, and epigenetic analyses of PA3 were conducted. Results General genome annotations of PA3 were discovered, as well as information about virulence factors, regulatory proteins (RPs), secreted proteins, type II toxin-antitoxin (TA) pairs, and genomic islands. A genome-wide comparison revealed that PA3 was comparable to other P. aeruginosa strains in terms of identity, but varied in areas of horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Phylogenetic analysis showed that PA3 was closely related to P. aeruginosa 60503 and P. aeruginosa 8380. P. aeruginosa's pan-genome consists of a core genome of roughly 4,300 genes and an accessory genome of at least 5,500 genes. The results of the epigenetic analysis identified one main methylation sites, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and 1 motif (CATNNNNNNNTCCT/AGGANNNNNNNATG). 16 meaningful methylated sites were picked. Among these, purH, phaZ, and lexA are of great significance playing an important role in the drug resistance and biological environment adaptability of PA3, and the targeting of these genes may benefit further antibacterial studies. Disucssion This study provided a detailed visualization and DNA methylation information of the PA3 genome and set a foundation for subsequent research into the molecular mechanism of DNA methyltransferase-controlled P. aeruginosa pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijiao Li
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Cadet Brigade 4, College of Basic Medicine, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Cadet Brigade 4, College of Basic Medicine, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Danxi Liao
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ruolan Liu
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Microbiology, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiu Zhong
- Department of Microbiology, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhuo Zeng
- Institute of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Southwest Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yizhi Peng
- Institute of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Southwest Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yinling Tan
- Department of Microbiology, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zichen Yang
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Microbiology, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Institute of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Southwest Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Mayo-Muñoz D, Pinilla-Redondo R, Birkholz N, Fineran PC. A host of armor: Prokaryotic immune strategies against mobile genetic elements. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112672. [PMID: 37347666 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Prokaryotic adaptation is strongly influenced by the horizontal acquisition of beneficial traits via mobile genetic elements (MGEs), such as viruses/bacteriophages and plasmids. However, MGEs can also impose a fitness cost due to their often parasitic nature and differing evolutionary trajectories. In response, prokaryotes have evolved diverse immune mechanisms against MGEs. Recently, our understanding of the abundance and diversity of prokaryotic immune systems has greatly expanded. These defense systems can degrade the invading genetic material, inhibit genome replication, or trigger abortive infection, leading to population protection. In this review, we highlight these strategies, focusing on the most recent discoveries. The study of prokaryotic defenses not only sheds light on microbial evolution but also uncovers novel enzymatic activities with promising biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Mayo-Muñoz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Genetics Otago, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Rafael Pinilla-Redondo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Section of Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nils Birkholz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Genetics Otago, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Bioprotection Aotearoa, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Peter C Fineran
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Genetics Otago, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Bioprotection Aotearoa, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand.
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Mani I, Singh V. Applications of bioinformatics in epigenetics. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 198:1-13. [PMID: 37225316 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, post-translational chromatin modifications and non-coding RNA-mediated mechanisms are responsible for epigenetic inheritance. Change in gene expression due to these epigenetic modifications are responsible for new traits in different organisms leading to various diseases including cancer, diabetic kidney disease (DKD), diabetic nephropathy (DN) and renal fibrosis. Bioinformatics is an effective approach for epigenomic profiling. These epigenomic data can be analyzed by a large number of bioinformatics tools and software. Many databases are available online, which comprises huge amount of information regarding these modifications. Recent methodologies include many sequencing and analytical techniques to extrapolate different types of epigenetic data. This data can be used to design drugs against diseases linked to epigenetic modifications. This chapter briefly highlights different epigenetics databases (MethDB, REBASE, Pubmeth, MethPrimerDB, Histone Database, ChromDB, MeInfoText database, EpimiR, Methylome DB, and dbHiMo), and tools (compEpiTools, CpGProD, MethBlAST, EpiExplorer, and BiQ analyzer), which are being utilized to retrieve the data and mechanistically analysis of epigenetics modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indra Mani
- Department of Microbiology, Gargi College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India.
| | - Vijai Singh
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, Gujarat, India
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Suerbaum S, Ailloud F. Genome and population dynamics during chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori. Curr Opin Immunol 2023; 82:102304. [PMID: 36958230 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2023.102304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori is responsible for one of the most prevalent bacterial infections worldwide. Chronic infection typically leads to chronic active gastritis. Clinical sequelae, including peptic ulcers, mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma or, most importantly, gastric adenocarcinoma develop in 10-15% of cases. H. pylori is characterized by extensive inter-strain diversity which is the result of a high mutation rate, recombination, and a large repertoire of restriction-modification systems. This diversity is thought to be a major contributor to H. pylori's persistence and exceptional aptitude to adapt to the gastric environment and evade the immune system. This review covers efforts in the last decade to characterize and understand the multiple layers of H. pylori's diversity in different biological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Suerbaum
- Max von Pettenkofer Institute for Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical Faculty, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 9a, 80336 Munich, Germany; DZIF German Centre for Infection Research, Munich Partner Site, Pettenkoferstr. 9a, 80336 Munich, Germany; German National Reference Centre for Helicobacter pylori, Pettenkoferstr. 9a, 80336 Munich, Germany.
| | - Florent Ailloud
- Max von Pettenkofer Institute for Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical Faculty, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 9a, 80336 Munich, Germany; DZIF German Centre for Infection Research, Munich Partner Site, Pettenkoferstr. 9a, 80336 Munich, Germany
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Fomenkov A, Weigele P, McClung C, Madinger C, Roberts RJ. Complete genome assembly and methylome dissection of Methanococcus aeolicus PL15/H p. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1112734. [PMID: 37089567 PMCID: PMC10113651 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1112734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Although restriction-modification systems are found in both Eubacterial and Archaeal kingdoms, comparatively less is known about patterns of DNA methylation and genome defense systems in archaea. Here we report the complete closed genome sequence and methylome analysis of Methanococcus aeolicus PL15/H p , a strain of the CO2-reducing methanogenic archaeon and a commercial source for MaeI, MaeII, and MaeIII restriction endonucleases. The M. aeolicus PL15/H p genome consists of a 1.68 megabase circular chromosome predicted to contain 1,615 protein coding genes and 38 tRNAs. A combination of methylome sequencing, homology-based genome annotation, and recombinant gene expression identified five restriction-modification systems encoded by this organism, including the methyltransferase and site-specific endonuclease of MaeIII. The MaeIII restriction endonuclease was recombinantly expressed, purified and shown to have site-specific DNA cleavage activity in vitro.
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