Unprecedented Microviridae phages isolated from equine uteri

Descriptions of the virome has only recently returned to the fore. There is much information yet to be discovered. Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) viruses as an exceptionally widespread virus can infect diverse hosts. The simple genome of ssDNA viruses leads to a high propensity for mutation and recombination, which often pose infectious threats to society. However, research investigating ssDNA phage genomes have ignored the reproductive tract communities. Here we have identified novel members of the Microviridae family from horse (Equus cabalas) uteri, with completed genomic sequences. Comparative and phylogenetic analyses between different animals indicate that genetically similar animals to the equine likely have the same or similar viruses in their uterine microbiome. This research not only expands the understanding of the diversity within Microviridae family, but also provides new insights into potential therapeutics for uterine infectious disease.