Genome analysis of a new Escherichia phage vB_EcoM_C2-3 with lytic activity against multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli

In this study, we present the complete, annotated genome of a new member of the Tequatrovirus (T4-like) genus, Escherichia phage vB_EcoM_C2-3. This phage has an isometric head (92 nm in diameter) and a contractile tail (114 nm in length). Its genome consists of a linear, double-stranded DNA of 167,069bp with an average G+C content of 35.3%. There are 267 predicted genes, of which 125 encode functional proteins, including those for DNA replication, transcription and packaging, phage morphogenesis and cell lysis. Neither genes involved in the regulation of lysogeny nor antibiotic resistance genes were identified. Based on our results, its genomic features provide valuable insights into the use of a potential biocontrol agent, as Escherichia phage vB_EcoM_C2-3 exhibited lytic activity against E. coli, including multidrug-resistant strains.

Automated summary

In this study, the complete genome of a new member of the Tequatrovirus genus, Escherichia phage vB_EcoM_C2-3, is presented. This phage has distinct features with an isometric head and a contractile tail, and its genome contains predicted genes encoding functional proteins. No lysogeny-related or antibiotic resistance genes were found. The results indicate the potential value of this phage as a biocontrol agent, as it exhibited lytic activity against E. coli, including multidrug-resistant strains.