Whole-genome sequence analyses of isolates reveals extensive genomic variation and diverse antibiotic resistance determinants.

BACKGROUND

() is a respiratory pathogen of swine and the etiological agent of Glässer's disease. The structural organization of genetic information, antibiotic resistance genes, potential pathogenicity, and evolutionary relationships among global strains remain unclear. The aim of this study was to better understand patterns of genetic variation, antibiotic resistance factors, and virulence mechanisms of this pathogen.

METHODS

The whole-genome sequence of a ST328 isolate from diseased swine in China was determined using Pacbio RS II and Illumina MiSeq platforms and compared with 54 isolates from China sequenced in this study and 39 strains from China and eigtht other countries sequenced by previously. Patterns of genetic variation, antibiotic resistance, and virulence mechanisms were investigated in relation to the phylogeny of the isolates. Electrotransformation experiments were performed to confirm the ability of pYL1-a plasmid observed in ST328-to confer antibiotic resistance.

RESULTS

The ST328 genome contained a novel Tn transposon harbouring a unique resistance determinant. It also contained a small broad-host-range plasmid pYL1 carrying and ; when transferred to RN4220 by electroporation, this plasmid was highly stable under kanamycin selection. Most (85.13-91.74%) of the genetic variation between isolates was observed in the accessory genomes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed two major subgroups distinguished by country of origin, serotype, and multilocus sequence type (MLST). Novel virulence factors ( and ) and drug resistance genes (, and ) in were identified Resistance determinants (, and ) were widespread across isolates, regardless of serovar, isolation source, or geographical location.

CONCLUSIONS

Our comparative genomic analysis of worldwide isolates provides valuable insight into the emergence and transmission of in the swine industry. The result suggests the importance of transposon-related and/or plasmid-related gene variations in the evolution of .