Query: NC_006833:902744 Wolbachia endosymbiont strain TRS of Brugia malayi, complete
Lineage: Wolbachia endosymbiont of Brugia malayi; Wolbachia; Anaplasmataceae; Rickettsiales; Proteobacteria; Bacteria
General Information: A nematode endosymbiont. This group of bacteria are associated with a variety of invertebrate species, some as pathogens, some in a symbiotic relationship. Typically these organisms are transmitted maternally from mother to daughter transovarially (through the egg) although these bacteria can affect their hosts reproductive capabilities in order to enhance transmission. The net outcome is the increase of hosts carrying the bacteria in the next generation, thereby increasing transmission. This strain naturally infects Brugia malayi, a parasitic filarial nematode that causes lymphatic filariasis, one of the most devastating diseases in humans. The endosymbiont plays important roles in the biology of the nematide host. One of the known such effects are aberrant sex ratios in the host, parthenogenesis and feminization of genetic males, etc.
Subject: NC_007618:1593886 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.