Comparing the mitochondrial genomes of Wolbachia-dependent and independent filarial nematode species.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Many species of filarial nematodes depend on Wolbachia endobacteria to carry out their life cycle. Other species are naturally Wolbachia-free. The biological mechanisms underpinning Wolbachia-dependence and independence in filarial nematodes are not known. Previous studies have indicated that Wolbachia have an impact on mitochondrial gene expression, which may suggest a role in energy metabolism. If Wolbachia can supplement host energy metabolism, reduced mitochondrial function in infected filarial species may account for Wolbachia-dependence. Wolbachia also have a strong influence on mitochondrial evolution due to vertical co-transmission. This could drive alterations in mitochondrial genome sequence in infected species. Comparisons between the mitochondrial genome sequ

SUBMITTER: McNulty SN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3409033 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature