VSGdb: a database for trypanosome variant surface glycoproteins, a large and diverse family of coiled coil proteins
2007

VSGdb: A Database for Trypanosome Variant Surface Glycoproteins

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Marcello Lucio, Menon Suraj, Ward Pauline, Wilkes Jonathan M, Jones Nicola G, Carrington Mark, Barry J David

Primary Institution: Wellcome Centre for Molecular Parasitology, University of Glasgow

Hypothesis

How do sequences spread and diversify within and between subtelomeres?

Conclusion

VSGdb is a freely available platform that allows easy retrieval of VSG sequences for detailed analysis of protein structure and evolution.

Supporting Evidence

  • VSGdb contains fully annotated VSG sequences from the genome sequencing project.
  • The database allows users to query and retrieve sequences in various formats.
  • VSGs are crucial for the survival of Trypanosoma brucei in mammalian hosts.

Takeaway

VSGdb is like a library for scientists where they can find and study special proteins that help trypanosomes survive in their hosts.

Methodology

The database was constructed to store and allow retrieval of annotated VSG sequences from various sources, including genome and cDNA sequences.

Limitations

The database may not include all functional VSGs, as many silent VSGs are not fully annotated.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2105-8-143

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