Probabilistic models for CRISPR spacer content evolution.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The CRISPR/Cas system is known to act as an adaptive and heritable immune system in Eubacteria and Archaea. Immunity is encoded in an array of spacer sequences. Each spacer can provide specific immunity to invasive elements that carry the same or a similar sequence. Even in closely related strains, spacer content is very dynamic and evolves quickly. Standard models of nucleotide evolution cannot be applied to quantify its rate of change since processes other than single nucleotide changes determine its evolution.

Methods

We present probabilistic models that are specific for spacer content evolution. They account for the different processes of insertion and deletion. Insertions can be constrained to occur on one end only or are allowed to occur throughout the array

SUBMITTER: Kupczok A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3704272 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature