Characterization and whole genome sequencing of a novel strain of Bergeyella cardium related to infective endocarditis

Abstract

Abstract Background Bergeyella cardium infection is becoming increasingly prevalent in patients with infective endocarditis, suggesting its significance in disease pathogenesis. However, few studies have fully characterized this species. Results Herein, we report the morphological and physiological characteristics, as well as whole genome sequencing of a newly identified B. cardium HPQL strain isolated from a patient with infective endocarditis. Results from the cellular morphology and biochemical analysis provide basic knowledge on the new pathogen. The whole genome sequencing of B. cardium HPQL consists of a circular chromosome with a total length of 2,036,890 bp. No plasmid was detected. Comparative genomics were carried out then. Antibiotics resistance related genes, pathogenesis related genes, predicted insertion sequences, genome islands and predicted CRISPRs sequences were demonstrated. To our knowledge, this is the first study to provide a complete genome sequence for Bergeyella spp. Conclusions This study provides fundamental phenotypic and genomic information for the newly identified fastidious infective endocarditis causative bacteria, B. cardium. Our results provide insights into effective clinical diagnosis and treatment of this pathogen.