ARS | Publication request: Genomic and Transcriptomic Studies in Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis

Submitted to: Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: August 20, 2010
Publication Date: December 15, 2010
Citation: Bannantine, J.P., Talaat, A.M. 2010. Genomic and transcriptomic studies in Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis. Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology. 138(4):303-311.

Interpretive Summary: This communication looks at genomic data to define the genetic diversity that exist within bacteria isolated from Johne’s disease cows. Difference strains of the same bacterium, termed Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), can be taken from infected cows in different herds and sometimes even within the same herd. Genomic data, including that obtained using microarray technology, has shown that MAP that infects sheep is quite different from MAP that infects cattle. Also, when the expression all of the genes from the MAP bacterium can be analyzed in a given condition (e.g. low pH), that is called a transcriptome. We have defined the transcriptome of MAP in stress conditions and low iron conditions. This publication is of primary interest to other researchers working in the field of genomics or Johne’s disease.

Technical Abstract: Microarray technology is an important tool in functional genomic research. It has enabled a deeper analysis of genomic diversity among bacteria belonging to the Mycobacterium avium Complex (MAC). In addition, the expression of thousands of genes can be studied simultaneously in a single experiment. With the complete genome sequence of a bovine isolate of M. avium subspecies paratuberculosis, and the independent construction of DNA microarrays in our laboratories, transcriptomic studies for this veterinary pathogen are now possible. Furthermore, the bovine genome sequence project is completed and bovine arrays have been developed to examine host responses to infection with M. avium subsp paratuberculosis. Collectively, genomic and transcriptomic data has yielded novel insights surrounding the genetic regulation and biology of Johne’s disease.