Whole-genome sequencing of Vibrio salmonicida

The genus Vibrio are among the most numerous and ubiquitous marine bacteria and commonly found as etiologic agents of diseases in both vertebrates and invertebrates throughout the world. Vibrio salmonicida, a marine gram-negative psychrophilic pathogen, t he etiological agent of Cold-water vibriosis (also called Hemorrhagic syndrome or Hitra disease) in Atlantic salmon and Atlantic cod, has been studied for some years. Although an efficient vaccine has been developed, the molecular mechanisms of host invas ion and specificity, colonization and growth are largely unknown. In order to gain insight into these mechanisms, part of V. salmonicida genome will be sequenced, genes identified and analyzed. Finally, the V. salmonicida genome will also provide a unique source of enzymes for the study of mechanisms for cold activity at a molecular levels and a valuable source of unique biomolecules in a bioprospectingperspective.