# Whole-Genome Sequencing and Comparative Genomic Analysis of Leishmania (Viannia) naiffi and L. (Viannia) shawi Reveal Species-Specific Genes and Novel Potential Drug Targets

## TL;DR

This study sequenced and compared the genomes of two Leishmania species, identifying unique genes and potential drug targets for treating leishmaniasis.

## Contribution

The study provides novel insights into species-specific genes and potential drug targets in Leishmania (Viannia) naiffi and L. (Viannia) shawi.

## Key findings

- L. naiffi and L. shawi have 46 and 25 unique genes, respectively, identified through pangenome analysis.
- Functional screening identified calpains, ABC transporters, and GSK-3 as potential drug targets.
- L. naiffi showed greater genomic diversity with 34,480 SNPs compared to 26,562 in L. shawi.

## Abstract

This study presents the complete sequencing and comparative genomic analysis of Leimania (Viannia) naiffi and Leishmania (Viannia) shawi, species of epidemiological relevance in the Brazilian Amazon. Genome assemblies yielded sizes of 32.13 Mb and 32.51 Mb, with 8170 and 7767 annotated genes, respectively. Predicted gene functions were primarily related to catalytic, binding, and ATP-dependent activities. Pangenome analysis revealed a core genome of 6256 genes alongside notable species-specific differences, including 46 and 25 unique genes in L. naiffi and L. shawi. Functional screening identified pharmacologically promising proteins such as calpains, ABC transporters, and notably, GSK-3. Ploidy analysis indicated tetraploidy on chromosome 8 in L. naiffi and chromosome 2 in L. shawi. Genetic variability assessment detected 34,480 SNPs in L. naiffi and 26,562 in L. shawi, indicating greater genomic diversity in the former. Phylogenetic inference based on the polA1 gene confirmed the placement of both species within the Leishmania (Viannia) subgenus. These findings advance Leishmania genomics knowledge by highlighting unique genetic signatures, regions of high variability, and potential therapeutic targets. This work establishes a foundation for future research on evolution, pathogenicity, and drug development for leishmaniasis.