The obligate human pathogen, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is polyploid
2006
Neisseria gonorrhoeae has multiple genomes
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Tobiason Deborah M, Seifert H. Steven
Primary Institution: Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
Hypothesis
Does Neisseria gonorrhoeae have more than one complete genome copy per cell?
Conclusion
The study found that Neisseria gonorrhoeae contains on average three completely replicated genome copies per cell.
Supporting Evidence
- Quantitative PCR results showed that there are on average three genome copies per coccal cell unit.
- The study proposes a model for gonococcal DNA replication and cell division with multiple chromosomal copies.
- Immune evasion via antigenic variation is linked to the polyploidy of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Takeaway
This study shows that the bacteria causing gonorrhea have more than one copy of their DNA, which helps them survive and evade the immune system.
Methodology
The researchers used flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and quantitative PCR to analyze the DNA content of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Limitations
The study's interpretation of stationary phase results is complicated by the low viability of cells.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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