Bdellovibrionota Comparative Genomics

Evolution of predation as a bacterial lifestyle involves selection and adaptation of enzymes that contribute to killing and digestion of prey bacteria, in some cases from within the prey itself. Such enzymes are a hallmark of obligate predatory bacteria belonging to phylum Bdellovibrionota, which includes the well-studied predator Bdellovibrio. By comparing protein sequences of obligate predatory bacteria and their non-predatory relatives, we define key genome content differences that distinguish bacterial predators and identify predator-specific enzymes that may have evolved unique activities due to selective pressures related to a predatory lifestyle. In addition to providing insights into the ecology and evolution of predatory bacteria, comparative genomics studies like this can inform efforts to develop predatory bacteria and/or their enzymes as potential biocontrol agents to combat drug-resistant bacterial infections.