Deciphering the Genetic Architecture of Staphylococcus warneri Prophage vB_G30_01: A Comprehensive Molecular Analysis

The current knowledge of <i>Staphylococcus warneri</i> phages is limited, with few genomes sequenced and characterized. In this study, a prophage, vB_G30_01, isolated from <i>Staphylococcus warneri</i> G30 was characterized and evaluated for its lysogenic host range. The phage was studied using transmission electron microscopy and a host range. The phage genome was sequenced and characterized in depth, including phylogenetic and taxonomic analyses. The linear dsDNA genome of vB_G30_01 contains 67 predicted open reading frames (ORFs), classifying it within Bronfenbrennervirinae. With a total of 10 ORFs involved in DNA replication-related and transcriptional regulator functions, vB_G30_01 may play a role in the genetics and transcription of a host. Additionally, vB_G30_01 possesses a complete set of genes related to host lysogeny and lysis, implying that vB_G30_01 may influence the survival and adaptation of its host. Furthermore, a comparative genomic analysis reveals that vB_G30_01 shares high genomic similarity with other <i>Staphylococcus</i> phages and is relatively closely related to those of <i>Exiguobacterium</i> and <i>Bacillus</i>, which, in combination with the cross-infection assay, suggests possible cross-species infection capabilities. This study enhances the understanding of <i>Staphylococcus warneri</i> prophages, providing insights into phage-host interactions and potential horizontal gene transfer.