Rameshkumar Marimuthu Ragavan

Abstract The evolutionary arms race between bacteria and phages led to the emergence of bacterial immune systems whose diversity and dynamics remain poorly understood. Here we use comparative genomics to describe a widespread genetic element, defined by the presence of the Gamma-Mobile-Trio (GMT) proteins, that serves as a reservoir of offensive and defensive tools. We demonstrate, using Vibrio parahaemolyticus as a model, that GMT-containing genomic islands are active mobile elements.

Abstract Conflicts between bacteria and their rivals led to an evolutionary arms race and the development of bacterial immune systems. Although diverse immunity mechanisms were recently identified, many remain unknown, and their dissemination within bacteria is poorly understood. Here, we describe a widespread genetic element, defined by the presence of the Gamma-Mobile-Trio (GMT) proteins, that serves as a bacterial survival kit.