Scholarlink

<p>CRISPR-Cas and restriction-modification systems represent the core defense arsenal in <i>Streptococcus thermophilus</i>, but their effectiveness is compromised by phages encoding anti-CRISPR proteins (ACRs) and other counter-defense strategies. Here, we explore the defensome of 263 <i>S. thermophilus</i> strains to uncover other anti-phage systems. The defense landscape of <i>S. thermophilus</i> is enriched by 21 accessory defense systems, 13 of which have&#xa0;never been investigated in this species. Experimental validation of 17 systems with 14 phages reveals a range of anti-phage activities, highlighting both broad and narrow specificities across the five viral genera infecting <i>S. thermophilus</i>. Synergies are observed when combining CRISPR immunity with accessory systems. We also assess the fitness cost associated with the chromosomal integration of these systems in their native context and find no impact under laboratory or industrial conditions. These findings underscore the potential of these accessory defense systems to enhance the resistance of <i>S. thermophilus</i>, particularly against ACR-encoding phages.</p>

错误：搜索内容不能为空，请输入英文关键词
错误：关键词超出字数限制，请精简
高级检索

Strengthening phage resistance of Streptococcus thermophilus by leveraging complementary defense systems

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

    开放获取

  • 发表日期：

    2025年8月4日

查看全文
  • Audrey Leprince,
  • Justine Lefrançois,
  • Anne M. Millen,
  • Damian Magill,
  • Philippe Horvath,
  • Dennis A. Romero,
  • Geneviève M. Rousseau,
  • Sylvain Moineau

摘要

CRISPR-Cas and restriction-modification systems represent the core defense arsenal in Streptococcus thermophilus, but their effectiveness is compromised by phages encoding anti-CRISPR proteins (ACRs) and other counter-defense strategies. Here, we explore the defensome of 263 S. thermophilus strains to uncover other anti-phage systems. The defense landscape of S. thermophilus is enriched by 21 accessory defense systems, 13 of which have never been investigated in this species. Experimental validation of 17 systems with 14 phages reveals a range of anti-phage activities, highlighting both broad and narrow specificities across the five viral genera infecting S. thermophilus. Synergies are observed when combining CRISPR immunity with accessory systems. We also assess the fitness cost associated with the chromosomal integration of these systems in their native context and find no impact under laboratory or industrial conditions. These findings underscore the potential of these accessory defense systems to enhance the resistance of S. thermophilus, particularly against ACR-encoding phages.