About the Project
The BCM-HGSC has sequenced the genome of the nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus).
The low-coverage (2x) Sanger sequence of the armadillo was published as a part of the 29 mammals project (Nature). The Broad Institute produced the low-coverage assembly. The high-quality(6x) Sanger draft genome sequence was produced by the BCM-HGSC and is being prepared for publication.
DNA for the project was kindly provided by the Broad Institute.
The armadillo is a natural reservoir of leprosy that can be acquired by humans who handle or consume them. The armadillo is used to study multiple births and delayed implantation of embryos - they usually produce identical quadruplets. Armadillos dig for food and shelter and eat a varied diet of invertebrates. They have a low body temperature and metabolic rate compared to most other placental mammals.
The project is funded by the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI).