VICTOR

VICTOR infers phylogenetic relationships and classifies prokaryotic viruses (bacterial and archaeal viruses) from genome sequence data to support viral taxonomy and evolutionary analyses.

Key Features:

• In Silico Framework: Employs a computational framework aligned with phylogenetic systematics and leverages a comprehensive reference dataset of officially classified viruses.
• Phylogenetic Analysis: Generates phylogenetic trees that exhibit high concordance with existing classifications, with most taxa supported as monophyletic but with reduced resolution at the family level.
• Distance Threshold Optimization: Applies distance thresholds optimized to maximize agreement with established taxonomy, identifying phylogenetically coherent clusters for taxon delineation.
• Identification of Novel Taxa: Detects novel species, genera, subfamilies, and families through analysis of an expanded dataset of over 4,000 genomes from public databases.

Scientific Applications:

• Biogeochemical Cycle Research: Supports investigation of prokaryotic virus roles in biogeochemical processes by clarifying evolutionary relationships and taxonomy.
• Therapeutic Development: Informs development of phage-based therapeutics against multi-resistant pathogens by identifying and classifying novel viral taxa.
• Viral Evolution Studies: Enables studies of viral evolution and diversity by providing phylogenetic context and a taxonomic framework for prokaryotic viruses.

Methodology:

Generates phylogenetic trees, applies distance thresholds optimized for maximal taxonomic agreement, and compares results to a reference dataset of officially classified viruses; analyses include an expanded dataset of over 4,000 genomes from public databases.