Comparative Genomic Analysis of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans Strains
Author Information
Author(s): Kittichotirat Weerayuth, Bumgarner Roger E., Asikainen Sirkka, Chen Casey
Primary Institution: Department of Microbiology, University of Washington
Hypothesis
What are the genomic variations among different strains of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans?
Conclusion
Significant genomic differences exist among Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans strains, with genomic islands contributing to the flexible gene pool.
Supporting Evidence
- The pangenome of A. actinomycetemcomitans was found to be open-ended, with an estimated increase of 16 genes for each additional strain sequenced.
- 171 genomic islands were identified, accounting for over half of the flexible gene pool.
- Genomic variations among strains were found to be as high as 19.5% between certain strains.
Takeaway
Scientists looked at the DNA of different types of a germ called Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and found that they are quite different from each other, which might affect how sick they can make people.
Methodology
The genomes of 11 new strains were sequenced and compared with three previously sequenced strains to analyze genomic variations.
Limitations
The study may not cover all possible strains of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and the functional roles of many genes remain unexplored.
Participant Demographics
Strains were isolated from individuals with varying periodontal disease diagnoses.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website