Differentiation of acetic acid bacteria based on sequence analysis of 16S–23S rRNA gene internal transcribed spacer sequences

The 16S–23S gene internal transcribed spacer sequence of sixty-four strains belonging to different acetic acid bacteria genera were analyzed, and phylogenetic trees were generated for each genera. The topologies of the different trees were in accordance with the 16S rRNA gene trees, although the similarity percentages obtained between the species was shown to be much lower. These values suggest the usefulness of including the 16S–23S gene internal transcribed spacer region as a part of the polyphasic approach required for the further classification of acetic acid bacteria. Furthermore, the region could be a good target for primer and probe design. It has also been validated for use in the identification of unknown samples of this bacterial group from wine vinegar and fruit condiments.

Research Highlights
► The phylogenetic analysis of 16S–23S gene internal transcribed spacer complements present taxonomic studies on acetic acid bacteria.
► 16S–23S gene internal transcribed spacer sequence analysis is a good tool for the identification of acetic acid bacteria involved in food processes.
► The 16S–23S ITS region is proposed for the design of specific probes and primers.