The linear chromosome of the plant-pathogenic mycoplasma 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali'
2008

The Linear Chromosome of 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali'

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Michael Kube, Bernd Schneider, Heiner Kuhl, Thomas Dandekar, Katja Heitmann, Alexander M Migdoll, Richard Reinhardt, Erich Seemüller

Primary Institution: Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics

Hypothesis

Does 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali' have a linear chromosome unlike other mycoplasmas?

Conclusion

'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali' has a unique linear chromosome with distinct features that differ from other mycoplasmas.

Supporting Evidence

  • 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali' has a chromosome size of 601,943 bp.
  • The GC content of 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali' is 21.4%.
  • The chromosome features large terminal inverted repeats and covalently closed hairpin ends.
  • 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali' differs from 'Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris' in metabolic capabilities.
  • The study provides insights into the unique genome structure of 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali'.

Takeaway

'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali' is a type of bacteria that causes plant diseases and has a special linear chromosome instead of a circular one like most bacteria.

Methodology

The study involved restriction mapping and sequencing of the chromosome to determine its structure.

Limitations

The study is limited by the challenges in obtaining high-quality DNA from infected plants.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2164-9-306

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication