Whole genome sequencing of Yersinia pestis isolates from Central Asian natural plague foci revealed the role of adaptation to different hosts and environmental conditions in shaping specific genotypes.

ABSTRACT: The genetic diversity and biovar classification of Yersinia isolates from Central Asia were investigated using whole-genome sequencing. In total, 98 isolates from natural plague foci were sequenced using the MiSeq platform. Computational pipelines were developed for accurate assembly of Y. pestis replicons, including small cryptic plasmids, and for identifying genetic polymorphisms. A panel of 99 diagnostic polymorphisms was established, enabling the distinction of dominant Medievalis isolates derived from desert and upland regions. Evidence of convergent evolution was observed in polymorphic allele distributions across genetically distinct Y. pestis biovars, Y. pseudotuberculosis, and other Y. pestis strains, likely driven by adaptation to similar environmental conditions. Genetic polymor

SUBMITTER: Abdirassilova AA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12445494 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature