Comparative genomic analyses reveal broad diversity in botulinum-toxin-producing Clostridia.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Clostridium botulinum is a diverse group of bacteria characterized by the production of botulinum neurotoxin. Botulinum neurotoxins are classified into serotypes (BoNT/A-G), which are produced by six species/Groups of Clostridia, but the genetic background of the bacteria remains poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to use comparative genomics to provide insights into the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of bacteria that produce the potent botulinum neurotoxin.

Results

Comparative genomic analyses of over 170 Clostridia genomes, including our draft genome assemblies for 59 newly sequenced Clostridia strains from six continents and publicly available genomic data, provided in-depth insights into the diversity and distribution of BoNT-producing

SUBMITTER: Williamson CH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4778365 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature