Query: NC_015697:33665 Lactobacillus reuteri SD2112 chromosome, complete genome
Lineage: Lactobacillus reuteri; Lactobacillus; Lactobacillaceae; Lactobacillales; Firmicutes; Bacteria
General Information: Lactobacillus reuteri is a member of the normal microbial community of the gut in humans and animals. This organism produces antibiotic compounds, such as reutericin and reuterin, which have inhibitory effects on pathogenic microorganisms. In addition, Lactobacillus reuteri is commonly used as a probiotic to maintain the balance of the gut microbial flora and stimulate the intestinal immune system.
Subject: NC_004545:499709 Buchnera aphidicola str. Bp (Baizongia pistaciae), complete genome
Lineage: Buchnera aphidicola; Buchnera; Enterobacteriaceae; Enterobacteriales; Proteobacteria; Bacteria
General Information: This organism is found in the aphid Baizongia pistaciae. Aphid endosymbiont. It is believed that the Buchnera provide the essential nutrients the host lacks. Besides a nutritional co-dependence, due to a co-existence of millions of years, Buchnera have lost the ability to produce cell surface components such as lipopolysaccharides. This makes for an obligate endosymbiont relationship between host and Buchnera. Buchnera are prokaryotic cells which belong to the gamma-Proteobacteria, closely related to the Enterobacteriaceae family. Phylogenetic studies using 16S rRNA indicate that the symbiotic relationship was established around 200-250 million years ago. Since Buchnera are closely related to Escherichia coli and Haemophilus influenzae, comparative genomic studies can shed light on the evolutionary mechanisms of intracellular endosymbiosis as well as the different underlying molecular basis between organisms with parasitic behavior and symbionts.