ARS | Publication request: THE MYCOBACTERIUM AVIUM SUBSPECIES PARATUBERCULOSIS GENOME AND ITS INITIAL APPLICATIONS

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: December 4, 2005
Publication Date: December 4, 2005
Citation: Bannantine, J.P., Kapur, V., Stabel, J.R., Paustian, M. 2005. The Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis Genome and its Initial Applications [abstract]. AAVI-ACVM Symposium at the Conference of Research Workers in Animal Diseases. p. 16.

Technical Abstract: With the recently completed genome sequence of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), the technology is now available for discovery of novel genetic sequences. However, because of the close genetic similarity to other mycobacteria comprising the Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), very few sequences specific to MAP have been found. Through a comparative genomics approach, we have previously identified only 39 of 4,350 MAP coding sequences that are not present in any other mycobacterial species tested. These sequences have been evaluated for their potential in diagnosis of animals with Johne’s disease. Furthermore, whole genome microarrays have been built and used to assess genomic diversity among members of the MAC. Finally, partial protein arrays have been developed to detect the presence of antibodies directed against MAP in host serum. The power of this approach is that it enables a direct comparison of MAP proteins to each other in relation to their immunostimulatory capabilities. Data from these arrays suggest selected antigens may be useful in the early diagnosis of Johne’s disease. The powerful combination of genomic information, molecular tools, and immunological assays has enabled the identification of previously unknown sequences and antigens of MAP.