Comparative Genomics of Mycobacterium avium Complex Reveals Signatures of Environment-Specific Adaptation and Community Acquisition
Eric C. Keen, JooHee Choi, Meghan A. Wallace, Michelle Azar, Carlos Mejía-Chew, Shail B. Mehta, Thomas C. Bailey, Lindsay J. Caverly, Carey‐Ann D. Burnham, Gautam Dantas
Abstract
Members of the Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), a group of mycobacteria encompassing M. avium and its closest relatives, are omnipresent in natural environments and emerging pathogens of humans and animals. MAC infections are difficult to treat, sometimes fatal, and increasingly common. Here, we used comparative genomics to illuminate key aspects of MAC biology. We found that different MAC species and M. avium isolates from different sources encode distinct suites of clinically relevant genes, including those for virulence and antibiotic resistance. We identified highly similar MAC strains in patients from different states and decades, suggesting community acquisition from dispersed and stable reservoirs, and we discovered a novel MAC species. Our work provides valuable insight into the genomic features underlying these versatile pathogens.