Genome sequence of Aeromonas hydrophila ATCC 7966T: Jack of all trades

Rekha Seshadri, Sam W. Joseph, Ashok K. Chopra, Jian Sha, Jonathan Shaw, Joerg Graf, Daniel Haft, Martin Wu, Qinghu Ren, M. J. Rosovitz, Ramana Madupu, Luke Tallon, Mary Kim, Shaohua Jin, Hue Vuong, O. Colin Stine, Afsar Ali, Amy J. Horneman, John F. Heidelberg

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

256 Scopus citations

Abstract

The complete genome of Aeromonas hydrophila ATCC 7966T was sequenced. Aeromonas, a ubiquitous waterborne bacterium, has been placed by the Environmental Protection Agency on the Contaminant Candidate List because of its potential to cause human disease. The 4.7-Mb genome of this emerging pathogen shows a physiologically adroit organism with broad metabolic capabilities and considerable virulence potential. A large array of virulence genes, including some identified in clinical isolates of Aeromonas spp. or Vibrio spp., may confer upon this organism the ability to infect a wide range of hosts. However, two recognized virulence markers, a type III secretion system and a lateral flagellum, that are reported in other A. hydrophila strains are not identified in the sequenced isolate, ATCC 7966T. Given the ubiquity and free-living lifestyle of this organism, there is relatively little evidence of fluidity in terms of mobile elements in the genome of this particular strain. Notable aspects of the metabolic repertoire of A. hydrophila include dissimilatory sulfate reduction and resistance mechanisms (such as thiopurine reductase, arsenate reductase, and phosphonate degradation enzymes) against toxic compounds encountered in polluted waters. These enzymes may have bioremediative as well as industrial potential. Thus, the A. hydrophila genome sequence provides valuable insights into its ability to flourish in both aquatic and host environments.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)8272-8282
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of bacteriology
Volume188
Issue number23
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2006

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Microbiology
  • Molecular Biology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Genome sequence of Aeromonas hydrophila ATCC 7966T: Jack of all trades'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this