AUTHOR=Pérez-Pascual David , Lunazzi Aurelie , Magdelenat Ghislaine , Rouy Zoe , Roulet Alain , Lopez-Roques Celine , Larocque Robert , Barbeyron Tristan , Gobet Angélique , Michel Gurvan , Bernardet Jean-François , Duchaud Eric 

TITLE=The Complete Genome Sequence of the Fish Pathogen Tenacibaculum maritimum Provides Insights into Virulence Mechanisms

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Microbiology

VOLUME=8

YEAR=2017

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2017.01542

DOI=10.3389/fmicb.2017.01542

ISSN=1664-302X

ABSTRACT=<p><italic>Tenacibaculum maritimum</italic> is a devastating bacterial pathogen of wild and farmed marine fish with a broad host range and a worldwide distribution. We report here the complete genome sequence of the <italic>T. maritimum</italic> type strain NCIMB 2154<sup>T</sup>. The genome consists of a 3,435,971-base pair circular chromosome with 2,866 predicted protein-coding genes. Genes encoding the biosynthesis of exopolysaccharides, the type IX secretion system, iron uptake systems, adhesins, hemolysins, proteases, and glycoside hydrolases were identified. They are likely involved in the virulence process including immune escape, invasion, colonization, destruction of host tissues, and nutrient scavenging. Among the predicted virulence factors, type IX secretion-mediated and cell-surface exposed proteins were identified including an atypical sialidase, a sphingomyelinase and a chondroitin AC lyase which activities were demonstrated <italic>in vitro</italic>.</p>