Genomic Comparison of Mycoplasma mycoides Subspecies
Author Information
Author(s): Thiaucourt Francois, Manso-Silvan Lucia, Salah Woubit, Barbe Valérie, Vacherie Benoit, Jacob Daniel, Breton Marc, Dupuy Virginie, Lomenech Anne Marie, Blanchard Alain, Sirand-Pugnet Pascal
Primary Institution: CIRAD, UMR CMAEE, Montpellier, France
Hypothesis
What are the genetic differences between Mycoplasma mycoides subspecies mycoides Small Colony and capri?
Conclusion
The genome of MmmSC PG1 is larger than that of Mmc 95010 but has less coding capacity due to genetic rearrangements and decay.
Supporting Evidence
- The MmmSC PG1 genome is 1,212 kbp while the Mmc 95010 genome is approximately 58 kbp shorter.
- Mobile genetic elements have contributed to genome plasticity and inversions of large DNA fragments.
- The repertoire of gene families encoding surface proteins is smaller in PG1 compared to Mmc.
Takeaway
Scientists compared the DNA of two closely related bacteria to see how they differ. They found that one has a bigger genome but is less efficient at making proteins.
Methodology
The genomes of MmmSC PG1 and Mmc 95010 were sequenced and compared to identify genetic differences.
Limitations
The study is based on a single strain of each subspecies, which may not represent the full diversity of the species.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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