Genome wide screening to discover novel toxin–antitoxin modules in Mycobacterium indicus pranii; perspective on gene acquisition during mycobacterial evolution

Abstract

AbstractMycobacterium indicus pranii (MIP), a benign saprophyte with potent immunomodulatory attributes, holds a pivotal position in mycobacterial evolution, potentially serving as the precursor to the pathogenic Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC). Despite its established immunotherapeutic efficacy against leprosy and notable outcomes in gram‐negative sepsis and COVID‐19 cases, the genomic and biochemical features of MIP remain largely elusive. This study explores the uncharted territory of toxin‐antitoxin (TA) systems within MIP, hypothesizing their role in mycobacterial pathogenicity regulation. Genome‐wide screening, employing diverse databases, unveils putative TA modules in MIP, setting the stage for a comparative analysis with known modules in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium smegmatis, Escherichia coli, and Vibrio cholerae. The study further delves into the TA network of MAC and Mycobacterium intracellulare, unraveling interactive properties and family characteristics of identified TA modules in MIP. This comprehensive exploration seeks to illuminate the contribution of TA modules in regulating virulence, habitat diversification, and the evolutionary pathogenicity of mycobacteria. The insights garnered from this investigation not only enhance our understanding of MIP's potential as a vaccine candidate but also hold promise in optimizing tuberculosis drug regimens for expedited recovery.