LegionProfiler: A computational tool for the identification of virulence factors and classification of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 isolates

LegionProfiler is a fast, realiable, and open-source tool for identifying virulence factors in Legionella isolates and classifying them based on infection risk. Available as a web application with a user-friendly interface, it can also be installed and run locally via Docker for greater flexibility. By automating the detection of virulence-associated protein domains within genome assemblies, LegionProfiler aids in discovering the virulence potential of Sg 1 isolates with high accuracy. It reveals a correlation between an epidemiological marker on the bacterial surface (mAb type) and the type 4 secretion system substrate configuration, providing a composite score to assess a strain´s infectious potential. LegionProfiler has the potential to enhance isolate risk assessment, strengthen epidemiological surveillance, and support the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for pneumonia. By facilitating informed decision-making in both clinical and public health contexts, it will ultimately contribute to more effective management of Legionnaires’ disease