Whole genome sequencing of human Borrelia burgdorferi isolates reveals linked blocks of accessory genome elements located on plasmids and associated with human dissemination

Abstract Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne disease in North America and Europe. The clinical manifestations of Lyme disease vary based on the genospecies of the infecting Borrelia burgdorferi spirochete, but the microbial genetic elements underlying these associations are not known. Here, we report the whole genome sequence (WGS) and analysis of 299 B. burgdorferi (Bb) isolates derived from…

Why Lyme treatments often fail

Monica Embers, PhD, Associate Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at Tulane University, Director of Vector-Borne Disease Research and member of the Tulane National Primate Research Center has been a leading participant in Lyme research. In addition she presents three free CME courses on [IN]VISIBLE for healthcare professionals. Her research program regarding Borrelia burgdorferi and Lyme…

Highlights from Q&A Panel discussion of The Quiet Epidemic global impact campaign

Thank you so much for your support of our recent two-part educational and fundraising event ~ The Quiet Epidemic. Whether you shared CanLyme’s event on social media, watched the documentary, bought a ticket, made a donation and/or participated in the live Q&A panel discussion, you helped us raise over $3,000!    At CanLyme, we are working…

Heart Failure, Infection, & a Medical Brick Wall

By Steven Phillips, MD “My father developed end-stage heart failure in his early 60’s, despite decades of top cardiology care. They said heart transplant was his only hope—They were wrong. Treating an overlooked infection permanently fixed his heart, averting the need for heart transplant. He passed away on 5/9/2021, 1 year ago today, at almost…