Transforming Anaplasma phagocytophilum to Express Green Fluorescent Protein
Author Information
Author(s): Roderick F. Felsheim, Michael J. Herron, Curtis M. Nelson, Nicole Y. Burkhardt, Anthony F. Barbet, Timothy J. Kurtti, Ulrike G. Munderloh
Primary Institution: University of Minnesota
Hypothesis
Can Anaplasma phagocytophilum be genetically transformed to express a fluorescent protein?
Conclusion
The transformed bacteria grow normally and can infect mice, indicating successful genetic manipulation.
Supporting Evidence
- The transformed bacteria were confirmed to express green fluorescent protein.
- Three mice inoculated with the transformed bacteria became infected.
- The GFP/Ap bacteria grew at normal rates in various cell cultures.
Takeaway
Scientists made a type of bacteria glow green so they can see how it behaves in cells. This helps them study the bacteria better.
Methodology
The study used the Himar1 transposase system to transform the bacteria and selected for transformants using spectinomycin.
Limitations
The study does not address long-term stability of the transformants in vivo.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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