Urinary schistosomiasis has afflicted humans for over 5,000 years. Ancient Egyptian papyri record “bloody urine” (parasite eggs were found in mummies dating to 1250–1000 BC) and in 1798 Napoleon’s soldiers dubbed Egypt “the land of menstruating men” due to widespread haematuria. 10.1038/ng.1065 Author: Oscar Gonzalo Figueredo
Genomic interest areas: Drug production
Whitespotted bambooshark
Chiloscyllium plagiosum, the whitespotted bambooshark, is a nocturnal reef-dwelling and small species (with a length of 24-37 inches). Its genome size is larger than a whale shark. Zhang Y, Gao H, Li H, Guo J, Ouyang B, Wang M, et al. (November 2020). “The White-Spotted Bamboo Shark Genome Reveals Chromosome Rearrangements and Fast-Evolving Immune Genes…
Atlantic horseshoe crab
Limulus polyphemus, the Atlantic horseshoe crab, is a marine arthropod considered a “living fossil” extending back approximately 450 million years. The blood color is blue due to the presence of hemocyanin and contains amoebocytes, used to detect toxins. Its genome presents specific duplications of genes related to innate immunity. https://doi.org/10.1186/2047-217X-3-9, 05/14/2014 Author: Guillem Dachs Margarit
Myxococcus xanthus
Myxococcus xanthus is a social eubacterial predator that exhibits various forms of self-organizing behavior in response to environmental cues. Its genome offers unparalleled access to a regulatory network that controls development and that organizes cell movement on surfaces. DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0607335103 (December/19/2006) Author: Carolina Doñate Alarcón
Rose gum
Eucalyptus grandis, commonly known as the rose gum or flooded gum, is one of the fastest-growing tree species, capable of reaching heights of up to 60 meters in optimal conditions. Its genome reveals adaptations for rapid growth, efficient water usage, and tolerance to diverse environmental conditions, while also highlighting its importance in bioenergy and challenges…
Zombie-ant fungus
Ophiocordyceps unilateralis is valued in local traditions for its medicinal properties. It contains cordycepin, known for its anti-inflammatory and potential anticancer effects. Additionally, it supports kidney health and may help manage depression and diabetes. de Bekker, C., Ohm, R. A., Loreto, R. G., Sebastian, A., Albert, I., Merrow, M., Brachmann, A., & Hughes, D. P….
Indian cobra
Naja naja, the Indian cobra, is a venomous snake species found in South Asia. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding venom composition and evolution, as well as developing antivenom treatments. 10.1038/s41588-019-0559-8 (Jan 6, 2020)
T. gondii
Toxoplasma gondii is a parasitic protozoan causing toxoplasmosis, a widespread infection in humans and animals. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding parasite biology and developing treatments. 10.1186/gb-2009-10-5-r53 (May 20, 2009)
Kinetoplastid Parasite
Leishmania major is a parasitic protozoan causing cutaneous leishmaniasis. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding parasite biology and developing treatments for leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease. 10.1126/science.1112680 (Jul 15, 2005)
B. anthracis
Bacillus anthracis Ames strain is the causative agent of anthrax, a deadly disease affecting humans and animals. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding anthrax pathogenesis and developing countermeasures. 10.1038/nature01586 (May 1, 2003)