Query: NC_014932:1314881 Bartonella clarridgeiae 73, complete genome
Lineage: Bartonella clarridgeiae; Bartonella; Bartonellaceae; Rhizobiales; Proteobacteria; Bacteria
General Information: Bartonella clarridgeiae was first identified from a case of cat scratch fever in a veterinarian who had been bitten by a cat. This organism has subsequently been identified in both cats and dogs. Cats, which are infected by fleas carrying the bacteria, in turn infect humans when scratching or biting them, hence the name. A small red bump forms at the site of infection, followed 2-3 weeks later by a painful swelling of the lymph node. In immunocompromized patients, more severe progress may be observed, including encephalitis, swelling of the spleen, and heart valve infection. Approximately 24 000 cases are reported in the US each year.
Subject: NC_007618:262415 Brucella melitensis biovar Abortus 2308 chromosome I, complete
Lineage: Brucella abortus; Brucella; Brucellaceae; Rhizobiales; Proteobacteria; Bacteria
General Information: This strain is a standard laboratory strain. It is virulent for humans and cattle. Causes bovine brucellosis. They are highly infectious, and can be spread through contact with infected animal products or through the air, making them a potential bioterrorism agent. Once the organism has entered the body, it can become intracellular, and enter the blood and lymphatic regions, multiplying inside phagocytes before eventually causing bacteremia (spread of bacteria through the blood). Virulence may depend on a type IV secretion system which may promote intracellular growth by secreting important effector molecules. This organism was first noticed on the island of Malta. It is the primary cause of bovine brucellosis, which results in enormous (billions of dollars) economic losses due primarily to reproductive failure and food losses. In man, it causes undulant fever, a long debilitating disease that is treated by protracted administration of antibiotics.