Comparative genomic analysis of Babesia duncani responsible for human babesiosis

Author:

Wang, J, Chen, K, Yang, J, Zhang, S, Liu, G, Luo, J, Yin, H, Wang, G, and Guan, G

Publication type:

Journal Article

Publication date:

2022-07

Journal/Series title:

BMC Biol.

Volume:

Issue:

Abstract:

Using ONT sequencing and Illumina sequencing technologies, we provide the first B. duncani reference genome and confirm that B. duncani forms a phylogenetically distinct clade from other Piroplasm parasites. Comparative genomic analyses show that two gene families are significantly expanded in B. duncani and may play important roles in host cell invasion and virulence of B. duncani. Our study provides basic information for further exploring B. duncani features, such as host-parasite and tick-parasite interactions.