The discovery of an efficient method of sequencing DNA genomes has been one of the most important biological breakthroughs of this era. It has led to an exponential increase in finding ways of treating genetic disorders in humans as well as discovering the means of preventing infection by sequencing the genome of bacteria and viruses.

Recently, scientists are on the verge of sequencing the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, which causes a disease in citrus plants called Huanglongbing (HLB). This bacterium infects the phloem of citrus plants, thus slowly killing the plant by inhibiting nutrition uptake. The infection is completely internal; there are no external symptoms to warn farmers of HLB infection until it is too late to save the plant. A tiny brown insect called citrus psyllid is the culprit that transmits the disease to citrus plants.

The sequencing results of the Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus genome will be published upon completion along with enzyme pathways and other information to help figure out methods to diagnose and treat HLB. If scientists find a way to combat HLB, it could prevent a $2.2 billion annual loss to the citrus industry!

Discussion question: How can the information gained from the sequencing of bacterial genomes benefit other areas of science?
News Article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090220182438.htm
Agricultural Research Service article (USDA): http://www.ars.usda.gov/citrusgreening/