Embedded Files
JimmyPG
JimmyPG
The first phage we isolated and annotated was JimmyPG. This phage, seen in the microscopy image on the left, has a genome that is 54,855 base pairs long. We are currently working on manually annotating its genome, but it appears to have approximately 57 genes. Its DNA sequence shows that is is similar to other phages with the same bacteria host (Microbacterium foliorum), classified as "subcluster EK2" phages. JimmyPG is a podovirus, which is a type of bacteriophage with a very short tail. It has a few unique genomic areas. See below for more information on that!
Mystery Phage
Mystery Phage
The second phage we isolated and annotated we call a "mystery phage" because we do not know which phage it was when we first started annotating it. It has a genome with a length of 62,907 base pairs and about 112 genes. We are still working to annotate all of the genes for this phage. Its DNA sequence shows that is is similar to other phages with the same bacteria host (Microbacterium foliorum), classified as "EG" phages. The mystery phage is a siphovirus.
Who is the Mystery Phage?
Who is the Mystery Phage?
We finally discovered that our mystery phage is actually a phage called...KillerQueen!
Phage Types
Phage Types
Phages can be classified based on their tail lengths. JimmyPG is a podovirus (middle) with an unusually short tail. KillerQueen (aka the mystery phage) is a siphovirus (right).
Genomic Conclusions
Genomic Conclusions
JimmyPG's genome is very similar to other EK2 phages, such as Mazun and Moleficent; however, the left side of JimmyPG's genome has gaps of genes that are not similar to any other phage, including genes that code for DNA polymerase I and Cas4 exonuclease. Gene 30, which falls within this range of divergent genes, is an "orpham," meaning a gene with very low similarity to all other known genes. Having unique amino acid sequences might give JimmyPG unique enzymatic abilities or proteins!
DNA Polymerase I
DNA Polymerase I
DNA polymerase I is an enzyme that is involved in DNA replication and repair. JimmyPG has unique amino acid sequences within the region of its DNA polymerase I that codes for the vestigial "exonuclease" (DNA cutting, see beige) region.
Cas4 Exonuclease
Cas4 Exonuclease
JimmyPG has unique amino acid sequences in the region of its Cas4 exonuclease that codes for the DNA binding portion. Cas4 exonuclease is involved in cutting specific DNA sequences and integration of viral DNA.
Other Unique Segments
A few novel regions in JimmyPG's genome encode for proteins whose functions we do not currently know.
Page updated
Report abuse