A TALE of Transposition: Tn 3 -Like Transposons Play a Major Role in the Spread of Pathogenicity Determinants of Xanthomonas citri and Other Xanthomonads

• DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02505-14
• Publication Date: 2015-02-18T07:20:41Z
• Authors: Rafael Marini Fer...; Amanda Carolina P...; Leandro M. Moreira; José Belasque; Edith Gourbeyre; Patricia Siguier; Maria Inês T. Ferro; Jesus A. Ferro; Michael Chandler; Alessandro M. Varani
• Keywords: Transposase; Xanthomonas; Xanthomonas citri; Transposition (logic); Insertion sequence; Pathogenicity island; Inverted repeat

ABSTRACT Members of the genus Xanthomonas are among most important phytopathogens. A key feature pathogenesis is translocation type III secretion system (T3SS) effector proteins (T3SEs) into plant target cells via a T3SS. Several T3SEs and murein lytic transglycosylase gene ( mlt , required for citrus canker symptoms) found associated with three transposition-related genes in citri plasmid pXAC64. These flanked by short i nverted r epeats (IRs). The region was identified as transposon, Tn Xax1 typical 3 family features, including transposase two recombination genes. Two 14-bp palindromic sequences within 193-bp potential resolution site occur between Additional derivatives carrying different other passenger species. include t ranscription ctivator- l ike e ffectors (TALEs). Certain TALEs same IRs to form m obile nsertion c assettes (MICs), suggesting that they may be transmitted horizontally. significant number MICs (including TALE genes) were also identified, delimited 5-bp duplications. We conclude large fraction T3SEs, individual pathogenicity determinants, have spread transposition which exhibits all essential characteristics functional involved driving MIC transposition. propose diversify fork slippage during replicative mechanisms play crucial role emergence pathogenicity. IMPORTANCE genomes carry many s equences (IS) transposons, an their evolution architecture. This study reveals relationship transposons determinants Xanthomonas. several events mediated -like element sets genes, such effectors ctivation- [TALEs]), determinant DNA-binding modulate transcription. present model generating diversity based on mechanism transposons. provide niche adaptation, specialization, host-switching, lifestyle changes. results will certainly lead novel insights various diseases caused species pathovars.