Whole Genome Sequencing and Comparative Genome Analyses of Chlamydia abortus Strains of Avian Origin Suggests That Chlamydia abortus Species Should Be Expanded to Include Avian and Mammalian Subgroups

• DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111405
• Publication Date: 2021-11-02T02:24:22Z
• Authors: Kinga Zaręba-Marc...; Monika Szymańska-...; Morag Livingstone; David Longbottom; Krzysztof Niemczuk
• Keywords: Chlamydia psittaci; Chlamydiae

A variety of Chlamydia species belonging to the Chlamydiaceae family have been reported in birds. Until recently, C. psittaci was considered be most common avian species, although found both birds and mammals, while abortus has only mammals. Recently, a new group strains with worldwide distribution various wild bird families described. In this study, whole genome sequencing (WGS) three these (15-70d24, 15-49d3 15-58d44, representing genotypes G1, G2 1V, respectively) that were isolated from analysed. Genome assemblies based on short-read Illumina long-read Nanopore data indicate show features characteristic phylogenetic analyses demonstrate closer relationship classical strains. Currently, classification established by ICSP Subcommittee taxonomy Chlamydiae, determines 15-70d24, 15-58d44 should classified as abortus. However, authors study conclude current taxonomic definition is outdated amended include two subgroups, mammalian avian, latter which would all isolates so far referred atypical or psittaci/C. intermediates.