Scientists sequence genomes of lyme disease bacteria
By ANITuesday, October 19, 2010
WASHINGTON - A group of scientists have determined the complete genetic blueprints for 13 different strains of the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, a skin infection, scientifically known as Borrelia burgdorferi.
The achievement should lead to a better understanding of how genetic variations among strains may result in different courses of illness in people with Lyme disease.
The new genetic data is expected to help scientists develop improved ways to diagnose, treat and prevent the disease.
The 13 newly sequenced strains include ones isolated from humans and ticks and represent a range of geographic origins.
Together, the genomes provide a more complete picture of scope of natural variations in the bacteria and the disease it causes.
Claire M. Fraser-Liggett of the University of Maryland School of Medicine led the sequencing and analysis and Steven E. Schutzer of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, initiated the research project. (ANI)
