Gemmata obscuriglobus
Classification
Prokarya; Planctomycetes; Planctomycetia; Planctomycetales; Planctomycetaceae; Gemmata; Gemmata obscuriblobus
Species
Gemmata obscuriglobus
The National Center for Biotechnology Information taxonomy page for Gemmata obscuriglobus: [1] |
Gemmata obscuriglobus is a spherical budding bacteria isolated from a freshwater damn in Queensland, Australia. This bacteria is interesting because it exhibits several structures and cellular processes that are typically reserved for only eukaryotic cells.
Genome Structure
The genome of Gemmata obscuriglobus is made up of DNA contained in the fibrillar, membrane-bounded nucleoid which is then surrounded by a another membrane as stated before. The genome consists of 9.16 million base pairs, consisting of 8,080 genes producing 7,989 proteins discovered thus far. The DNA does not contain chromosomes, but a circular piece of DNA that is characteristic to most all prokaryotes.
Describe the size and content of the genome. How many chromosomes? Circular or linear? Other interesting features? What is known about its sequence?
Cell Structure, Metabolism and Life Cycle
The cellular structure of the Gemmata obscuriglobus species is unique from other bacteria species in that it has many features and structures that are only seen in eukaryotes, yet is is classified as a prokaryote. The most distinguishing feature of this species and other related species is its membrane-bounded nuclear area. The DNA is contained in a fibrillar nucleoid area enclosed in a membrane, which is then enclosed in an outer membrane. Bacteria species have been found to have some associations between their DNA and membranes, but never as complete or complex as this species and related species. The dual-membrane structure surrounding the nucleoid is termed "nuclear body" signifying its difference from the eukaryotic nucleus.
Interesting features of cell structure; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.
Ecology and Pathogenesis
Habitat; symbiosis; biogeochemical significance; contributions to environment.
If relevant, how does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
References
Author
Page authored by Michael Bowe and Ryan Quenneville, student of Prof. Jay Lennon at Michigan State University.
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