Multi-omics Insights into the Marine Pathogen Tenacibaculum maritimum: Decoding Virulence for Vaccine Design

Abstract

Tenacibaculum maritimum is a Gram-negative marine bacterium and the etiological agent of tenacibaculosis, a disease of major concern for worldwide aquaculture. Despite the increasing relevance of this pathogen, a comprehensive understanding of its virulence strategies and environmental adaptations has remained elusive. This thesis provides an integrative omics-based characterization of key virulence factors in T. maritimum. It underscores the role of OMVs as virulence and vaccine platforms, identifies novel siderophore structures, and maps the transcriptional landscape underlying host adaptation. These findings provide a foundation for the development of more effective preventive strategies in aquaculture and contribute to our broader understanding of host-pathogen interactions in marine ecosystems.