Complete genomic sequence and mass spectrometric analysis of highly diverse, atypical Bacillus thuringiensis phage 0305ϕ8–36

To investigate the apparent genomic complexity of long-genome bacteriophages, we have sequenced the 218,948-bp genome (6479-bp terminal repeat), and identified the virion proteins (55), of Bacillus thuringiensis bacteriophage 0305ϕ8–36. Phage 0305ϕ8–36 is an atypical myovirus with three large curly tail fibers. An accurate mode of DNA pyrosequencing was used to sequence the genome and mass spectrometry was used to accomplish the comprehensive virion protein survey. Advanced informatic techniques were used to identify classical morphogenesis genes. The 0305ϕ8–36 genes were highly diverged; 19% of 247 closely spaced genes have similarity to proteins with known functions. Genes for virion-associated, apparently fibrous proteins in a new class were found, in addition to strong candidates for the curly fiber genes. Phage 0305ϕ8–36 has twice the virion protein coding sequence of T4. Based on its genomic isolation, 0305ϕ8–36 is a resource for future studies of vertical gene transmission.