Genome Sequence of the Pathogenic Intestinal Spirochete Brachyspira hyodysenteriae
Author Information
Author(s): Bellgard Matthew I., Wanchanthuek Phatthanaphong, La Tom, Ryan Karon, Moolhuijzen Paula, Albertyn Zayed, Shaban Babak, Motro Yair, Dunn David S., Schibeci David, Hunter Adam, Barrero Roberto, Phillips Nyree D., Hampson David J.
Primary Institution: Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
Hypothesis
What adaptations allow Brachyspira hyodysenteriae to colonize the porcine large intestine and induce disease?
Conclusion
The genome of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae reveals significant adaptations for survival and pathogenicity in the porcine large intestine.
Supporting Evidence
- Brachyspira hyodysenteriae has a genome size of approximately 3,000,694 base pairs.
- The genome contains 2,122 protein-coding sequences.
- Many genes in B. hyodysenteriae are similar to those in Escherichia coli and Clostridium species.
- Potential virulence genes include those for 15 proteases and six hemolysins.
- The genome reveals adaptations for chemotaxis and motility.
Takeaway
This study sequenced the genome of a bacteria that makes pigs sick, helping us understand how it survives and causes disease.
Methodology
The genome of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae strain WA1 was sequenced and analyzed for adaptations that allow it to colonize the large intestine.
Limitations
The study does not identify new pathogenic mechanisms beyond known virulence factors.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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