Evolution and origin of virulence isolates

Abstract

Perhaps the most significant benefit of microbial genomic sequences is the knowledge gained on the molecular process of genome evolution in microbes derived from comparative genomic analysis. Genetic variations are the driving forces of evolution. These are generated not only through base substitutions, small deletions and insertions, major DNA rearrangements and deletions, but also through DNA acquisition by horizontal gene transfer. Pathogens are evolved from diverse bacterial species. The molecular mechanisms involved are diverse, and likely affected by the conditions of the microenvironment inhabited by the evolving bacterial species. © 2006 Humana Press Inc.