The Wolbachia endosymbionts of filarial nematodes.

Abstract

The discovery and rediscovery of intracellular symbiosis in filarial nematodes (Dirofilaria immitis, Brugia malayi, B. pahangi, Onchocerca volvulus), and the phylogenetic positioning of Wolbachia and other intracellular bacteria are reviewed. The vertical transmission, mutualism with filaria, reproductive parasitism and the distribution of Wolbachia in arthropods and filarial worms are discussed. The interphylum transmission, monophyly and horizontal transmission of Wolbachia are discussed under the heading: phylogeny of Wolbachia in filarial worms. Genomic analysis and implications for the pathogenesis and treatment of filarial diseases are discussed.