Phages and their satellites encode hotspots of antiviral systems

Bacteria carry diverse genetic systems to defend against viral infection, some of which are found within prophages where they inhibit competing viruses. Phage satellites pose additional pressures on phages by hijacking key viral elements to their own benefit. Here, we show that E. coli P2-like phages and their parasitic P4-like satellites carry hotspots of genetic variation containing reservoirs of anti-phage systems. We validate the activity of diverse systems and describe PARIS, an abortive infection system triggered by a phage-encoded anti-restriction protein. Antiviral hotspots participate in inter-viral competition and shape dynamics between the bacterial host, P2-like phages, and P4-like satellites.…

• ÉN
  École Normale Supérieure
• AN
  Agence Nationale de la Recherche

  Awards: 10-LABX-62-IBEID, ANR-10-LABX-62-IBEID, ANR-10, ANR-10-LABX-62
• FP
  Fondation pour la Recherche Médicale
• IP
  Institut Pasteur
• ER
  European Research Council
• HE
  H2020 European Research Council

  Award: 677823