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ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Tucson, Arizona » Carl Hayden Bee Research Center » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #299454
Title: Draft genome sequences of two Bifidobacterium sp. from the honey bee (Apis mellifera)

Author
item Anderson, Kirk
item JOHANSSON, ANDREAS - University Of Southampton
item Sheehan, Timothy
item Mott, Brendon
item Corby-Harris, Vanessa
item JOHNSTONE, LAUREL - University Of Arizona
item SPRISSLER, RYAN - University Of Arizona
item FITZ, WILLIAM - University Of Arizona

Submitted to: Gut Pathogens
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/13/2013
Publication Date: 12/18/2013
Publication URL: http://handle.nal.usda.gov/10113/58727
Citation: Anderson, K.E., Johansson, A., Sheehan, T.H., Mott, B.M., Corby-Harris, V.L., Johnstone, L., Sprissler, R., Fitz, W. 2013. Draft genome sequences of two Bifidobacterium sp. from the honey bee (Apis mellifera). Gut Pathogens. 5:42. DOI: 10.1186/1757-4749-5-42.

Interpretive Summary: We sequenced two genomes of Bifidobacterium typically found in the hindgut of the honey bee and considered beneficial gut bacteria. Honey bee associated Bifidobacterium represents the first case of extreme oxygen tolerance documented in this genus. We found broad differences in the ability of the genomes to process both simple and complex sugars. Consistent with the harsh osmoregulatory and acidic conditions generated by pure honey both genomes possessed enzymatic components to cope with rapid and extreme changes in water and pH.

Technical Abstract: We provide genome sequences for two strains of honey bee associated Bifidobacterium. Reflecting an oxygen-rich niche, both strains possessed catalase, peroxidase, superoxide-dismutase and respiratory chain enzymes indicative of oxidative metabolism. The strains show markedly different carbohydrate processing capabilities, with one possessing auxiliary and key enzymes of the Entner-Doudoroff pathway.