Molecular Biology
With the application of modern molecular genetic and cell biological techniques, the mechanisms used by Legionella to multiply within macrophages are beginning to be understood. The specific regulatory cascades that govern differentiation as well as the gene regulation are being studied. The genome sequences of six L. pneumophila strains have been published and it is now possible to investigate the whole genome by modern molecular methods. It has been discovered that Legionella is a genetically diverse species with 7-11% of genes strain specific. The molecular function of some of the proven virulence factors of Legionella have been discovered by some researchers. Molecular studies are contributing to the fields of clinical research, diagnosis, treatment, epidemiology, and prevention of disease.
Read more about this topic: Legionella
Famous quotes containing the word biology:
“The “control of nature” is a phrase conceived in arrogance, born of the Neanderthal age of biology and the convenience of man.”
—Rachel Carson (1907–1964)