Comprehensive profiling of integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) in Mollicutes: distinct catalysts of gene flow and genome shaping.

ABSTRACT: Mollicutes, known as the simplest bacteria with streamlined genomes, were traditionally thought to evolve mainly through gene loss. Recent studies have highlighted their rapid evolutionary capabilities and genetic exchange within individual genomes; however, their evolutionary trajectory remains elusive. By comprehensive screening 1433 available Mollicutes genomes, we revealed widespread horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in 83.9% of investigated species. These genes involve type IV secretion systems and DNA integration, inferring the unique role of integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) or integrative and mobilizable elements (IMEs) as self-transmissible genetic elements. We systematically identified 263 ICEs/IMEs across most Mollicutes genera, being intact or fragmented, showing a strong co

SUBMITTER: Chai Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12205969 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature