Comparative Genomics Reveals Unique Genetic Determinants of Biofilm Formation in Campylobacter

TL;DR

This study identifies unique genes in Campylobacter strains that help form biofilms, which could lead to better ways to prevent infections and improve food safety.

Contribution

The study identifies 19 unique genes in specific Campylobacter strains linked to biofilm formation.

Findings

C. jejuni strains YH001 and YH027 showed the strongest biofilm-forming ability.

Pangenome analysis identified 19 unique genes/proteins specific to these biofilm-forming strains.

These genes are involved in adhesion, extracellular matrix production, and stress response.

Abstract

A biofilm is a complex microbial community that protects bacterial cells from various stressors, including harsh environmental conditions, antimicrobial treatments, and host immune responses. This protective capability enhances Campylobacter survival during food processing and storage and facilitates transmission to humans. Despite their importance, the molecular mechanisms underlying Campylobacter biofilm formation and its impact on pathogen persistence remain poorly understood. In this study, we characterized the biofilm-forming ability of 18 C. jejuni and C. coli strains isolated from retail meat and performed whole-genome sequencing and comparative genomic analysis to identify strain-specific genes contributing to biofilm formation and maintenance. Phenotypic analysis revealed that C. jejuni strains YH001 and YH027 exhibited the strongest biofilm-forming capacity, producing the highest biomass among all isolates. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a close genetic relationship between these two strains, while pangenome analysis identified 19 unique genes/proteins specific to these strains. Functional annotation indicated their critical roles in adhesion, extracellular matrix production, and stress response. These findings demonstrate strain-specific biofilm formation in Campylobacter and highlight genetic determinants that may serve as targets for novel therapeutic approaches and intervention strategies to disrupt biofilms, improve food safety, and reduce persistent infections.

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