Whole genome sequence of the Treponema Fribourg-Blanc: unspecified simian isolate is highly similar to the yaws subspecies.
2013
Background: Unclassified simian strain Treponema Fribourg-Blanc
was isolated in 1966 from baboons (Papio cynocephalus)in West
Africa. This strain was morphologically indistinguishable from
T. pallidum ssp. pallidum or ssp. pertenue strains, and it was
shown to cause human infections. Methodology/Principal
Findings: To precisely define genetic differences between
Treponema Fribourg-Blanc (unclassified simian isolate, FB) and
T. pallidum ssp. pertenue strains (TPE), a high quality
sequence of the whole Fribourg-Blanc genome was determined with
454-pyrosequencing and Illumina sequencing platforms. Combined
average coverage of both methods was greater than 5006.
Restriction target sites (n = 1,773), identified in silico, of
selected restriction enzymes within the Fribourg-Blanc genome
were verified experimentally and no discrepancies were found.
When compared to the other three sequenced TPE genomes (Samoa
D, CDC-2, Gauthier), no major genome rearrangements were found.
The Fribourg- Blanc genome clustered with other TPE strains
(especially with the TPE CDC-2 strain), while T. pallidum ssp.
pallidum strains clustered separately as well as the genome of
T. paraluiscuniculi strain Cuniculi A. Within coding regions, 6
deletions, 5 insertions and 117 substitutions differentiated
Fribourg-Blanc from other TPEgenomes. Conclusions/Significance:
The Fribourg-Blanc genome showed similar genetic
characteristics as other TPE strains. Therefore, we propose to
rename the unclassified simian isolate to Treponema pallidum
ssp. pertenue strain Fribourg-Blanc. Since the Fribourg-Blanc
strain was shown to cause experimental infection in human
hosts, non-human primates could serve as possible reservoirs of
TPE strains. This could considerably complicate recent efforts
to eradicate yaws. Genetic differences specific for
Fribourg-Blanc could then contribute for identification of
cases of animal-derived yaws infections.
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