[Evolution of the cholera agent genome].

"Mikrob" Russian Research Anti-Plague Institute, Saratov Studies of the genomic evolution of pathogenic bacteria became a priority research trend of modern molecular genetics. Vibrio cholerae, whose pathogenic properties are conditioned by the presence of virulence blocks of differing phylogenetic origins in 2 chromosomes, turned out to be a unique model object for studies of evolutionary transformations of genomes that are causative agents of extra dangerous infections. The molecular-and-genetic mechanisms underlying the change of biovariants and the emergence of a cholera agent of a new serogroup are in the focus of attention. Finally, the possibility that the new V. cholerae pathogenic clone originated due to horizontal genetic transfers and recombination phenomena is under discussion in the survey.