Phylogenetic detection of horizontal gene transfer during the step-wise genesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In the past decade, the availability of complete genome sequence data has greatly facilitated comparative genomic research aimed at addressing genetic variability within species. More recently, analysis across species has become feasible, especially in genera where genome sequencing projects of multiple species have been initiated. To understand the genesis of the pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis within a genus where the majority of species are harmless environmental organisms, we have used genome sequence data from 16 mycobacteria to look for evidence of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) associated with the emergence of pathogenesis. First, using multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA) of 20 housekeeping genes across these species, we derived a phylogeny that serves as the

SUBMITTER: Veyrier F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3087520 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature