The population and functional genomics of the Neisseria revealed with gene-by-gene approaches

摘要

Rapid low cost whole genome sequencing (WGS) is revolutionising microbiology; however, complementary advances in accessible, reproducible, and rapid analysis techniques are required to realise the potential of these data. Here investigations of the genus Neisseria illustrate the gene-by-gene conceptual approach to the organisation and analysis of WGS data. Using the gene and its link to phenotype as a starting point, the BIGSDBdatabase, which powers the PubMLST databases, enables the assembly of large open access collections of annotated genomes that provide insight into: the evolution of the Neisseria; the epidemiology of meningococcal and gonococcal disease; and mechanisms of Neisseria pathogenicity.