Chapter 11. Decoding the Ascaris suum Genome using Massively Parallel Sequencing and Advanced Bioinformatic Methods – Unprecedented Prospects for Fundamental and Applied Research
Chapter 11. Decoding the Ascaris suum Genome using Massively Parallel Sequencing and Advanced Bioinformatic Methods – Unprecedented Prospects for Fundamental and Applied Research
Parasitic nematodes cause substantial morbidity and mortality in animals and people globally and major losses to food production annually. Ascaris is among the commonest geohelminths of swine and people worldwide, and causes major disease and socioeconomic losses, particularly in developing countries. The control of ascariasis has become a global health and welfare priority, but current treatment programs carry a significant risk of inducing anthelmintic resistance. Therefore, there is a need to work toward the sustainable control of Ascaris/ascariasis, built on a solid understanding of its molecular biology and genetics. Recently, we reported the 273 megabase (Mb) draft genome of Ascaris suum (sequenced from the reproductive tract of a single adult female worm) and explored transcription in different organs, stages, and both sexes of this nematode using advanced sequencing and computer technologies. We characterized key genes and biological pathways linked to the parasite’s migration in the host, and its immunobiology, reproduction, and development. We also predicted and prioritized drug targets in A. suum, providing a basis for discovering new groups of nematocides. The present chapter provides an account of these recent advances, describes new methodologies established, and emphasizes prospects for profound investigations into the comparative genomics, genetics, evolution, immunobiology, epidemiology, and ecology of Ascaris from both pig and human hosts as well as for the development of new interventions against ascariasis and other helminthiases.
Cullman County was established in 1877 in large part from the west side of Blount and the east side of Winston counties. Today, the few old cemeteries which existed in those counties in the early days are found within the borders of Cullman. The cemetery listings in this four volume set were conducted by the author beginning in 2003 and ending in early 2006. An attempt was made to personally visit every cemetery in Cullman County and record information from each readable monument. Volume 4 of this series covers alphabetically cemeteries M through Z, beginning with the Mt. Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery and concluding with the Zion Grove Cemetery. The volumes are filled with photos of many of the old cemetery sites and notes describing the company and unit of most of the old Civil War era veterans. This set of books is vital to any serious student of Cullman County genealogy and history.
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