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Abstract
Research on the intracellular bacterial symbiont Wolbachia has grown on many levels,
providing interesting insights on various aspects of the microbe's biology. Although
data from fully sequenced genomes of different Wolbachia strains and from experimental
studies of host-microbe interactions continue to arise, most of the molecular mechanisms
employed by Wolbachia to manipulate the host cytoplasmic machinery and to ensure vertical
transmission are yet to be discovered. Apart from the well-established role of Wolbachia
in triggering reproductive alterations, a new fascinating aspect is emerging, related
to the ecological benefits that the symbiont provides to the host. The mutualistic
relationship of Wolbachia strains with disease vectors remains among the top research
priorities with new insights having an impact on putative anti-filarial strategies.
Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.