Project description:In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome of short-tailed field vole, Microtus agrestis, was determined through sequencing of PCR fragments. The complete mitochondrial genome of M. agrestis was 16,538?bp in length and encoded 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and two ribosomal RNA genes. The overall nucleotide composition is: 15.7% A, 27.5% T, 25.5% C, and 31.4% G, with a total G?+?C content of 56.9%. By phylogenetic analysis using Bayesian method, M. agrestisa showed the closest relationship with the southern vole (Microtus rossiaemeridionalis).
Project description:More than 40 species of mammal have been reported to be infected naturally with Schistosoma japonicum (Chinese mainland strain) in China. The reed vole, Microtus fortis, is the only known mammalian host in which the schistosomes are unable to mature and cause significant pathogenic changes. Gene expression profiling of the 10 day old schistosomula was performed. Microarray analysis was also used to identify differences in gene expression between Schistosoma japonicum schistosomula from BALB/c mice and from Microtus fortis. 10 day old schistosomula were isolated, total RNA obtained and Agilent one colour labeling used. A custom designed Agilent microarray was used to determine what differential gene expression occurs between parasites maintained in either a permissive (mouse) or non-permissive (vole) hosts.