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Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Adjuvant Activity of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in Enhancing the Immunogenicity of Autoantigens During Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Published on: May 12, 2023
On the evolution of 'Indian Bison type' strains of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis
J S Sohal1, S V Singh, P K Singh
1Microbiology Laboratory, Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, PO-FARAH, District Mathura (UP), India.
Abstract:
Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), the causative agent of Johne's disease (JD) in animals, has also been linked with Crohn's disease in human beings. Lack of indigenous diagnostics and vaccine hampered control of JD in India. Designing effective control strategies require thorough understanding of the etiological agent at phenotypic and molecular levels. On the basis of cultural phenotypes and IS1311 PCR-REA typing, MAP strains have been genotyped as 'Cattle type', 'Sheep type' and 'Bison type'. Information exists on genetic differences and comparative evolution of 'Cattle type' and 'Sheep type' strains after divergence from M. avium; however, emphasis has been little on 'Bison type' strains. Recently, a new 'Indian Bison type' genotype has been reported as principal strain infecting different animal species and human beings in India. The study analyzed few genetic markers to have inferences on the molecular evolution of native MAP isolates belonging to 'Bison type' genotype. Results pointed towards recent evolution of 'Bison type' genotype.
Insights
Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) causes Johne's disease in animals and is linked to Crohn's disease in humans. This study reveals recent molecular evolution in the prevalent
Area of Science:
- Veterinary microbiology
- Molecular epidemiology
- Infectious diseases
Background:
- Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is the etiological agent of Johne's disease (JD) in ruminants.
- MAP has been implicated in Crohn's disease (CD) in humans, necessitating further research into its genetic diversity.
- Control of JD in India is hindered by a lack of indigenous diagnostics and vaccines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular evolution of MAP strains, particularly the 'Bison type' genotype.
- To understand the genetic basis of the predominant 'Indian Bison type' MAP strain circulating in India.
- To provide insights for developing effective control strategies against MAP infections.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of MAP strains using IS1311 PCR-REA.
- Analysis of specific genetic markers in native MAP isolates.
- Comparative analysis of genetic data for evolutionary inferences.
Main Results:
- The study focused on the understudied 'Bison type' MAP genotype.
- A new 'Indian Bison type' genotype has been identified as the principal strain in India, infecting various animal species and humans.
- Analysis of genetic markers suggests recent evolutionary origins for the 'Bison type' genotype.
Conclusions:
- The 'Indian Bison type' MAP genotype represents a recently evolved lineage.
- Understanding the molecular evolution of MAP is crucial for disease control and public health.
- Further research into MAP's genetic diversity can inform diagnostic and vaccine development.
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