Insights from Antarctica to the Clinic: Novel Staphylococcus species and their mobile genetic arsenal

Presenter Information

Vojtech Kovarovic

Location

Gallaudet University - JSAC Multipurpose Room

Start Date

5-3-2024 10:00 AM

End Date

5-3-2024 10:30 AM

Description

Coagulase-negative species of the genus Staphylococcus (CoNS) are found in various environments, and as opportunistic pathogens, they often cause bloodstream and implant biofilm-related infections, especially in immunocompromised patients. The study of CoNS is crucial due to its role as a reservoir of antibiotic resistance determinants located on mobile genetic elements. Recently, next-generation sequencing has become more accessible and has enabled the use of in-depth genome analysis for the study of the evolution of genomes and accurate species identification. Here, we present descriptions of three novel CoNS species, each representing a distinct phylogenetic branch within the genus: Staphylococcus edaphicus from Antarctic soil, Staphylococcus ratti from laboratory rat, and Staphylococcus brunensis from human clinical material. The presented results are part of the dissertation thesis and will focus on the analysis of novel mobile genetic elements, including a unique genome island designated SbCIccrDE. This island contains a recombinase gene complex, an essential part of SCCmec, which confers resistance to methicillin, and its spread into the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus significantly impacts healthcare. The comparative genomic analysis has shown the potential to accumulate virulence and drug resistance factors and helps to understand the evolution of SCC-like elements.

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Mar 5th, 10:00 AM Mar 5th, 10:30 AM

Insights from Antarctica to the Clinic: Novel Staphylococcus species and their mobile genetic arsenal

Gallaudet University - JSAC Multipurpose Room

Coagulase-negative species of the genus Staphylococcus (CoNS) are found in various environments, and as opportunistic pathogens, they often cause bloodstream and implant biofilm-related infections, especially in immunocompromised patients. The study of CoNS is crucial due to its role as a reservoir of antibiotic resistance determinants located on mobile genetic elements. Recently, next-generation sequencing has become more accessible and has enabled the use of in-depth genome analysis for the study of the evolution of genomes and accurate species identification. Here, we present descriptions of three novel CoNS species, each representing a distinct phylogenetic branch within the genus: Staphylococcus edaphicus from Antarctic soil, Staphylococcus ratti from laboratory rat, and Staphylococcus brunensis from human clinical material. The presented results are part of the dissertation thesis and will focus on the analysis of novel mobile genetic elements, including a unique genome island designated SbCIccrDE. This island contains a recombinase gene complex, an essential part of SCCmec, which confers resistance to methicillin, and its spread into the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus significantly impacts healthcare. The comparative genomic analysis has shown the potential to accumulate virulence and drug resistance factors and helps to understand the evolution of SCC-like elements.