Progress 10/01/04 to 09/30/05
Outputs
We are using a comparative genomics approach to identify factors that influence the host specificity of the Bordetella genus. We have focused on the fimbrial genes and have compared the predicted protein structures of the fimbriae from all four of the sequenced Bordetella species. We have identified the putative host cell receptor binding domains and are undertaking further comparisons of these domains in fimbriae of other pathogens. Potential host specificity domains will be further tested by mutagenesis and pathogenesis testing.
Impacts
Bordetella avium infects the upper respiratory tract of birds, while the other Bordetella species infect similar sites in mammals. This host difference may be reflected in different attachment factors expressed by the different Bordetella species. These studies could therefore help to elucidate the basis of host specificity. Understanding the attachment mechanisms used by B. avium in the turkey house environment could lead to more success in controlling the transmission of this pathogen.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/00 to 09/30/01
Outputs
na
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/99 to 09/30/00
Outputs
Adm.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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