Genome sequencing: Panspermia, spores and the Bacillus subtilisgenome

The publication of the complete genome sequence of the Gram positive bacterium,Bacillus subtilis, is sure to make a big contribution to understanding other bacteria in this group. Gram positive bacteria include some of the nastiest pathogens known to man, such as those that cause botulism, pneumonia and tuberculosis. The B. subtilisgenome has yielded many surprises including a greater than expected number of genes that encode regulators of transcription. Furthermore, genes were found for as many as 77 different types of transporter proteins, which have the job of importing nutrients into the bacteria and expelling toxic agents such as antibiotics.