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….
Genomic interest areas: Drug production
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)
B. bovis
Babesia bovis is a protozoan parasite transmitted by ticks and causes bovine babesiosis, a severe disease in cattle. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding parasite biology and developing control measures. 10.1371/journal.ppat.0030148 (Oct 19, 2007)
Axolotl
Ambystoma mexicanum, the axolotl, is a salamander species capable of regenerating lost body parts, including limbs and spinal cord. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding regeneration mechanisms and evolution. 10.1038/nature25458 (Jan 24, 2018)
Swiftwater hydra
Hydra vulgaris is a freshwater cnidarian known for its remarkable regenerative abilities. Its genome helps us understand tissue regeneration and stem cell biology. 10.1038/nature08830 (Mar 14, 2010)
Human
The human genome (Homo sapiens) was sequenced as part of the Human Genome Project. It revolutionized our understanding of genetics and human health. 10.1038/35057157 (Feb 15, 2001)
E. coli
Escherichia coli, a common gut bacterium, has been extensively studied in microbiology. Its genome sequencing provides insights into bacterial genetics, metabolism, and pathogenicity. 10.1126/science.277.5331.1453 (Sep 5, 1997)