Mycoplasma genomics: tailoring the genome for minimal life requirements through reductive evolution

摘要: Prokaryotic organisms of the genus Mycoplasma are characterized by their small body and genome size containing a 0.6-1.35 M bp genome. The is noted for its low G+C frequency ranging from 8-40 mol%. stems class Mollicutes (for soft skin), which lacks cell walls external motility appendages often present in other bacteria. To date, there more than 100 known species Mycoplasma. 34 have been partially or completely sequenced. Widely pathogenic include: M. pneumoniae, causing pneumonia respiratory disorders, genitalium, involved pelvic inflammatory disease. Because size, Mycoplasmas provide researchers unique model minimal genomic requirements to maintain life. As number complete genomes increase, these become established, thus laying foundation mapping evolutionary development. This manuscript provides an overview update on research, with particular focus current genomics.