Antiphage systems in the lactococcal plasmidome

Novel molecular models based on computational modeling with AlphaFold2.

321 plasmid sequences from 53 lactococcal strains were scrutinised for the presence of antiphage systems. Systematic evaluation of 198 candidates facilitated the discovery of seven not previously described antiphage systems, as well as five systems, homologues of which had been described in other bacteria. All described systems confer resistance against the most prevalent lactococcal phages, and act post phage DNA injection, while all except one behave like abortive infection systems. Structure and domain predictions provided insights into their mechanism of action and allow grouping of several genetically distinct systems. Although rare within our plasmid collection, homologues of the seven novel systems appear to be widespread among bacteria. This study highlights plasmids as a rich repository of as yet undiscovered antiphage systems.