Borrelia bissettii

Borrelia bissettii is a species of bacteria within the genus Borrelia, which is part of the family Borreliaceae. This bacterium is a member of the spirochete phylum, characterized by its spiral shape and motility. B. bissettii is one of several species of Borrelia that are known to cause Lyme disease in humans.

Discovery and Classification

Borrelia bissettii was first described in 1998 by Postic et al. It was named in honor of Dr. Bissett, who contributed significantly to the study of Lyme disease spirochetes. The classification of B. bissettii was based on genetic analysis, which distinguished it from other Borrelia species such as Borrelia burgdorferi, the primary causative agent of Lyme disease in North America.

Morphology and Structure

Borrelia bissettii is a spirochete, which means it has a helical shape. This shape is typical of the Borrelia genus and is crucial for its motility. The bacterium moves in a corkscrew motion, which allows it to navigate through viscous environments such as connective tissues. Like other spirochetes, B. bissettii has a unique structure with axial filaments, also known as endoflagella, located between the outer membrane and the cell wall.

Ecology and Transmission

Borrelia bissettii is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Ixodes ticks, which are also vectors for other Borrelia species. The bacterium has been identified in various tick species and animal hosts, indicating a broad ecological range. It has been found in both Europe and North America, suggesting a wider distribution than initially thought.

Pathogenicity and Clinical Significance

While Borrelia bissettii is less well-known than B. burgdorferi, it has been implicated in cases of Lyme disease, particularly in Europe. The symptoms of Lyme disease caused by B. bissettii are similar to those caused by other Borrelia species, including erythema migrans, fever, fatigue, and joint pain. Diagnosis is typically made through serological testing and clinical evaluation.

Research and Studies

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the genetic diversity of Borrelia bissettii and its role in Lyme disease. Studies are also investigating the bacterium's interaction with the immune system and its mechanisms of evading host defenses. Improved diagnostic methods and treatments are being developed to better manage infections caused by B. bissettii.

Also see

• Borrelia burgdorferi
• Lyme disease
• Spirochaetes
• Ixodes