Data Sheet 1_Comparison of three routine methods for the identification of Kerstersia gyiorum from routine diagnostics and review of the literature.pdf

To ensure accurate species identification, dDDH (an NGS-based identification strategy) was used as the reference method. Furthermore, this manuscript provides an overview of all cases reported in the literature to date and discusses the accuracy of the identification results reported in these studies. In addition, genomic studies (pangenome and ANI matrix) were conducted using in silico analyses to investigate the clonal relationships among the isolates.</p>Results<p>The results show that MALDI-TOF MS is best suited for identifying K. gyiorum in routine diagnostics.

However, in contrast to most publications, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was not suitable, as it was impossible to distinguish K. gyiorum from other members of the Alcaligenaceae family. The VITEK 2 system must also be considered unreliable for the correct identification of K. gyiorum. Additionally, this study identified a candidate for an undescribed species of the genus Kerstersia.</p>Discussion<p>MALDI-TOF MS is well suited for expanding the reference collection directly from routine diagnostics.

The results of 16S gene sequencing should be interpreted with caution. Conversely, biochemical methods must be regarded as unreliable. The species’ large core genome suggests a specialized previously unknown specialized ecological niche.

Furthermore, two distinct clusters within the reference collection suggest a common origin. Additionally, follow-up studies must determine whether one isolate that cannot be unambiguously assigned to a species represents a previously undescribed member of the genus Kerstersia.</p>