Characterization of phylogenetically distinct temperate phages from Kenyan Mammaliicoccus sciuri
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SAGE Publications
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Background:
Temperate bacteriophages are widespread in bacterial genomes and can play significant roles in bacterial evolution and pathogenicity. Despite their importance, they remain poorly characterized in nonclinical <i>Staphylococcaceae</i>, particularly <i>Mammaliicoccus sciuri</i>.
Materials and Methods:
We analyzed 26 <i>M. sciuri</i> strains isolated from the nasal cavities of East African dogs and camels. Prophages were induced using mitomycin C, and isolated phages were characterized by whole-genome sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, electron microscopy imaging, and host-range determination.
Results:
Eight novel siphoviruses were isolated. Phylogenomic analysis revealed two new families, each comprising two genera. Notably, phages from one of these families (with genomes >130 kbp) exhibit a broad host range, while the other family is related to previously described phages implicated in horizontal gene transfer.
Conclusion:
Our findings reveal unexpected diversity of temperate phages in <i>M. sciuri</i>, expanding current knowledge of phage distribution in animal-associated opportunistic pathogens.
Palabras clave
bacteriophages, camels, dogs