Global analysis of the genomic diversity, antimicrobial resistance and potential vaccine candidates carried by the major global bovine pathogen Streptococcus uberis

Abstract

Streptococcus uberis is a leading cause of bovine mastitis, resulting in large economic losses and welfare issues for affected cows. However, relatively little is known about the global distribution and emergence of bovine mastitis-causing lineages and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance or virulence genes in the species. Here, we present a global framework for S. uberis based on whole-genome sequencing data from isolates across four continents (n=1,070). Internationally, S. uberis isolates show extensive genetic heterogeneity driven by homologous recombination and high levels of accessory genome content. Within the population, 35% (n=374/1,070) of isolates had at least one acquired an..