Whole genome analysis of two sympatric human Mansonella: Mansonella perstans and Mansonella sp "DEUX". undefined

Mansonella species are filarial parasites that infect humans worldwide. Although these infections are very common, knowledge about the diversity and pathology of these organisms is limited. In addition, the lack of sequencing data available for Mansonella species, indicates their neglect in research. Mansonella perstans is a blood-dwelling species infecting humans, mainly in Africa. Lately, a potential new species called Mansonella sp “DEUX” has been identified in Gabon, which is prevalent at high frequencies. To further determine if Mansonella sp “DEUX” is a genotype of M. perstans, or if these are two sympatric species, we sampled mono-infected individuals in Gabon. From these, we successfully generated the first whole genome for M. perstans as well as for Mansonella sp “DEUX”. Phylogenetic analysis of annotated protein sequences, including other nematode species, showed the divergence between both organisms, supporting the hypothesis of two distinct species. Similar results are obtained from the analysis based on the mitogenomes. The inferred evolutionary analysis suggests, that M. perstans and Mansonella sp “DEUX” have separated around 778,000 years ago. Additionally, we generated sequences from the endobacteria Wolbachia, found in both organisms. In our study, we identified two sympatric Mansonella species. The availability of whole genome data will allow further investigations of these species and contribute to correct diagnosis, diminishing the neglect of Mansonella research.