A new genetic analysis of Lyme disease may provide a method for improved diagnosis and treatment of the disease. As the geographic range of Lyme disease spreads, this research could provide valuable tools for combatting this common public health threat.
In the study, published in mBio, Rutgers researchers mapped the complete genetic makeup of 47 unique strains of Lyme disease-causing bacteria, ultimately creating a powerful tool that can be used to identify the specific bacterial strain infecting patients.
"This comprehensive, high-quality sequencing investigation of Lyme disease and related bacteria provides the foundation to propel the field forward," said Steven Schutzer, a Rutgers New Jersey Medical School professor. "Every modern research project—from clinical to public health to ecology and evolution to bacterial physiology to medical-tool development to host-bacteria interaction—will benefit from this work."
The team sequenced the entire genome of all 23 known species of Lyme disease bacteria, many of which for the first time, including multiple strains of the bacteria most commonly associated with human infections. Additionally, the team identified specific hot spots in the genomes where recombination most often occurs.
"By understanding how these bacteria evolve and exchange genetic material, we're better equipped to predict and respond to changes in their behavior, including potential shifts in their ability to cause disease in humans," said Weigang Qiu, a professor of biology at City University of New York.
In the future, the researchers intend to continue analyzing additional Lyme disease bacteria strains. Additionally, they plan to investigate the functions of the disease-causing genes to identify potential treatment targets.