Scientists at the Institute for Genomic Research in Maryland have deciphered the genetic code for a strain of Bacillus anthracis, which causes anthrax, the Associated Press reported today (see GSN, April 8).

Institute scientists have mapped out the genetic code of the Ames strain of the anthrax bacterium, according to AP.  The new research, published today in Nature, could help the development of new vaccines and treatments against the disease.

The research provides a “much-expanded list of potential virulence genes,” said institute President Claire Fraser.  In addition, scientists discovered more than 600 genes with no known function, which might also play a role in the disease’s virulence, according to Fraser (Associated Press/Baltimore Sun, May 1). 

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