Borrelia burgdorferi
A Microbial Biorealm page on the genus Borrelia burgdorferi
Classification
Higher order taxa
Domain; Spirochaetes; Spirochaetes; Spirochaetales; Spirochaetaceae
Species
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NCBI: Taxonomy |
Borrelia burgdorferi
Description and significance
Describe the appearance, habitat, etc. of the organism, and why it is important enough to have its genome sequenced. Describe how and where it was isolated. Include a picture or two (with sources) if you can find them.
Genome structure
Describe the size and content of the genome. How many chromosomes? Circular or linear? Other interesting features? What is known about its sequence? Does it have any plasmids? Are they important to the organism's lifestyle?
B. burgdorferi has a large linear chromosome that is 910,725 base pairs long. This chromosome contains 853 genes coding for basic functions such as DNA replication, transcription, translation as well as transport and metabolic systems. However, in addition to this chromosome, the bacteria also contains over 17 other linear and circular plasmids that add an additional 533,000 base pairs of DNA.
Cell structure and metabolism
Describe any interesting features and/or cell structures; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.
Ecology
Describe any interactions with other organisms (included eukaryotes), contributions to the environment, effect on environment, etc.
Pathology
How does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
Application to Biotechnology
Does this organism produce any useful compounds or enzymes? What are they and how are they used?
Current Research
Enter summaries of the most recent research here--at least three required
References
Edited by Dan Holligan, student of Rachel Larsen at UCSD.
