Genome sequence of segmented filamentous bacteria present in the human intestine

Commun Biol. 2020 Sep 4;3(1):485. doi: 10.1038/s42003-020-01214-7.

Abstract

Segmented filamentous bacteria (SFB) are unique immune modulatory bacteria colonizing the small intestine of a variety of animals in a host-specific manner. SFB exhibit filamentous growth and attach to the host's intestinal epithelium, offering a physical route of interaction. SFB affect functions of the host immune system, among them IgA production and T-cell maturation. Until now, no human-specific SFB genome has been reported. Here, we report the metagenomic reconstruction of an SFB genome from a human ileostomy sample. Phylogenomic analysis clusters the genome with SFB genomes from mouse, rat and turkey, but the genome is genetically distinct, displaying 65-71% average amino acid identity to the others. By screening human faecal metagenomic datasets, we identified individuals carrying sequences identical to the new SFB genome. We thus conclude that a unique SFB variant exists in humans and foresee a renewed interest in the elucidation of SFB functionality in this environment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Bacteria / genetics*
  • Base Sequence
  • Female
  • Genes, Bacterial
  • Genome, Bacterial*
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions / genetics
  • Humans
  • Intestines / microbiology*
  • Male
  • Metagenome
  • Middle Aged
  • Phylogeny
  • Young Adult