In-depth analysis of Bacillus anthracis 16S rRNA genes and transcripts reveals intra- and intergenomic diversity and facilitates anthrax detection

• DOI: 10.1101/2021.08.02.454851
• Publication Date: 2021-08-05T14:40:23Z
• Authors: Peter Braun; Fee Zimmermann; Mathias C. Walter; Sonja Mantel; Karin Aistleitner; Inga Stürz; Gregor Grass; Kilian Stoecker
• Keywords: Bacillus anthracis

Abstract Analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes provides a central means taxonomic classification bacterial species. Based on presumed sequence identity among species the Bacillus cereus sensu lato group, rRNA B. anthracis have been considered unsuitable for diagnosis anthrax pathogen. With recent identification single nucleotide polymorphism in some gene copies, specific becomes feasible. Here, we designed and evaluated set situ-, vitro- silico- assays to assess yet unknown 16S-state from different perspectives. Using combination digital PCR, fluorescence situ hybridization, long-read genome sequencing bioinformatics were able detect quantify unique allele (16S-BA-allele). This was found all available B . genomes may facilitate differentiation pathogen any close relative. Bioinformatics analysis 959 data-sets inferred that abundances genomic arrangements 16S-BA-allele entire operon copy-numbers differ considerably between strains. Expression ratios 16S-BA-alleles proportional respective copy-numbers. The findings experimental tools presented here provide detailed insights into intra- intergenomic diversity pave way improved other pathogens with diverse operons.