Query: NC_007712:3629358 Sodalis glossinidius str. 'morsitans', complete genome
Lineage: Sodalis glossinidius; Sodalis; Enterobacteriaceae; Enterobacteriales; Proteobacteria; Bacteria
General Information: Sodalis glossinidius is known exclusively in endosymbiosis with tsetse flies. It is maternally transmitted, and is one of the few bacterial endosymbionts of insects that can be cultured successfully in vitro. Genome data reveals a high proportion of pseudogenes in this species, many of which were, in their functional state, involved in defense or transport of carbohydrates and inorganic ions. This suggests a degenerative adaptation to the immunity and restricted nutritional status of the host.
Subject: NC_006368:3211998 Legionella pneumophila str. Paris, complete genome
Lineage: Legionella pneumophila; Legionella; Legionellaceae; Legionellales; Proteobacteria; Bacteria
General Information: This serogroup I strain is endemic in France. Causes Legionnaire's disease. This organism is a non-marine bacterium usually found growing inside other organisms such as protozoans in aquatic environments. They can also be found in soil, freshwater, and in biofilms. The first outbreak of Legionnaire's disease occurred in 1976 at an American Legion convention and the resulting pneumonia-like disease resulted in 34 deaths. The cause of the disease was traced to Legionella bacteria. Once the bacteria are brought into the lungs they make contact with alveolar macrophages and are internalized where they can cause severe respiratory distress. Internalization occurs through specialized vacuoles (replicative phagosomes) that allow the bacteria to grow and replicate prior to escape from the macrophage. Formation of the replicative phagosome, which requires reprogramming of the normal phagosome maturation pathway, requires a type IV secretion system called the Dot/Icm system. This type IV system is closely related to the conjugative system of plasmid ColIb-P9, and is involved in the secretion of numerous protein components that aid in formation of the replicative phagosome. Other virulence determinants include a set of multidrug transporters and other efflux pumps for toxic compounds that may allow the organism to persist in its habitat, a set of LPS phase variable genes that enhance immune evasion, and a type II secretion system for transport of hydrolases.