Physical map of chromosomal and plasmid DNA comprising the genome of<i>Leptospira interrogans</i>

Abstract

The size and physical structure of the Leptospira interrogans genome was characterized using contour-clamped homogenous electric field (CHEF) gel electrophoresis. The L. interrogans genome is approximately 4750 kb in size and is composed of two molecular species of DNA: a 4400 kb chromosome; and a 350 kb plasmid, pLIN1. A physical map of the chromosome was constructed with the restriction enzymes NotI and SfiI. A physical map of pLIN1 was constructed with ApaI, NotI, Sse83871, SgrAI, and SmaI. Both the L. interrogans chromosome and pLIN1 are circular.