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

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Oluwafemi A Sarumi - , University of Münster (Author)
  • Wilhelm Bertrams - , Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), University of Marburg (Author)
  • Oliver Schwengers - , Justus Liebig University Giessen (Author)
  • Jan-Paul Herrmann - , Justus Liebig University Giessen (Author)
  • Torsten Hain - , Justus Liebig University Giessen (Author)
  • Laurine Kieper - , Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology (Author)
  • Markus Petzold - , Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology (Author)
  • Alexander Goesmann - , Justus Liebig University Giessen (Author)
  • Bernd T Schmeck - , Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), University of Marburg (Author)
  • Dominik Heider - , University of Münster (Author)

Abstract

Legionella pneumophila has significantly contributed to multiple cases of pneumonia with a high rate of mortality globally. Its ability to exploit host mechanisms through several expressed virulence factors poses challenges for diagnosis, treatment, and outbreak control. To address this, we developed LegionProfiler, a computational tool that swiftly identifies virulence factor protein domains within genome assemblies of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 isolates and classifies them into high- or low-virulence groups. LegionProfiler automates the probing of genome assemblies for virulence-associated protein domains and determines the isolate's potential to cause severe pneumonia infection. The LegionProfiler workflow is made available through a user-friendly interface to enhance technical control of infectious sources and adds important insights to the general epidemiology of clinical isolates. It could also support the development of targeted therapeutic strategies that will improve patient treatment.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article numberbtaf398
JournalBioinformatics
Volume41
Issue number7
Publication statusPublished - Jul 2025
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 105011832974

Keywords