Complete Genome Sequence of Bordetella pertussis D420

Christine J Boinett1, Simon R Harris1, Gemma C Langridge1

  • 1Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom.

Genome Announcements
|June 13, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Bordetella pertussis causes whooping cough, a disease that is increasing despite vaccinations. This study presents the full genome sequence of a current B. pertussis strain, D420, aiding in understanding its resurgence.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Bordetella pertussis is the bacterium responsible for whooping cough, a significant public health concern.
  • Whooping cough (pertussis) has experienced a resurgence globally, even in highly vaccinated populations.
  • Understanding the genetic makeup of circulating strains is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present the complete genome sequence of a recent clinical isolate of Bordetella pertussis.
  • To characterize the genetic features of the D420 strain, which represents a currently circulating lineage.
  • To provide a genomic resource for studying pertussis epidemiology and evolution.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of the Bordetella pertussis D420 clinical strain.
  • Bioinformatic analysis to assemble and annotate the complete genome.
  • Phylogenetic analysis to determine the relationship of the D420 strain to other B. pertussis clades.

Main Results:

  • The complete genome sequence of B. pertussis strain D420 was successfully obtained.
  • Strain D420 belongs to a clade of B. pertussis currently circulating and causing infections.
  • Genomic data provides insights into the genetic variations within contemporary B. pertussis populations.

Conclusions:

  • The availability of the D420 genome sequence facilitates research into the molecular basis of B. pertussis pathogenesis and evolution.
  • This genomic data can aid in the development of improved diagnostics and vaccines.
  • Understanding circulating strains is vital for controlling the resurgence of whooping cough.

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