Genomic Characterization of Cyanophage Isolates and Analysis of a Potential Antiphage System
Major
Biology
Submission Type
Poster
Area of Study or Work
Biology
Faculty Advisor
Richard Alvey
Location
CNS Atrium
Start Date
4-11-2026 11:15 AM
End Date
4-11-2026 12:30 PM
Abstract
Cyanophages play vital roles in aquatic ecosystems and food webs. As global temperatures increase, harmful algae blooms (HABs) have been noted to form dense mats that often release cyanotoxins. Current methods to mitigate HABs, such as algaecides are not targeted and can lead to harmful impacts on other organisms. Cyanophages, viruses that attack cyanobacteria, have the potential to act as targeted biocontrol agents for HABs. The Alvey Lab at IWU has isolated five cyanophages from various aquatic biomes of Illinois over the years. However, we have been unable to get the genome sequence for several of these due to low lysate titers. Recently, I have been able to isolate DNA from the cyanophage Gandhi. I have employed its genomic sequence to uncover evolutionary relationships. Now, I am working on applying these modified protocols to isolate and sequence the DNA of cyanophages Stepo, Ginsberg, Lansing, and Saugatuck. Once sequenced, I will implement these cyanophages to analyze potential antiphage systems within their cyanobacterial host Anabaena. The generation of knockout strains via recombineering may allow for a broader understanding of phage resistance and Anabaena immunity.
Genomic Characterization of Cyanophage Isolates and Analysis of a Potential Antiphage System
CNS Atrium
Cyanophages play vital roles in aquatic ecosystems and food webs. As global temperatures increase, harmful algae blooms (HABs) have been noted to form dense mats that often release cyanotoxins. Current methods to mitigate HABs, such as algaecides are not targeted and can lead to harmful impacts on other organisms. Cyanophages, viruses that attack cyanobacteria, have the potential to act as targeted biocontrol agents for HABs. The Alvey Lab at IWU has isolated five cyanophages from various aquatic biomes of Illinois over the years. However, we have been unable to get the genome sequence for several of these due to low lysate titers. Recently, I have been able to isolate DNA from the cyanophage Gandhi. I have employed its genomic sequence to uncover evolutionary relationships. Now, I am working on applying these modified protocols to isolate and sequence the DNA of cyanophages Stepo, Ginsberg, Lansing, and Saugatuck. Once sequenced, I will implement these cyanophages to analyze potential antiphage systems within their cyanobacterial host Anabaena. The generation of knockout strains via recombineering may allow for a broader understanding of phage resistance and Anabaena immunity.