A chromosomal reference genome for the major human hookworm Necator americanus
Strongylid nematode parasites infect the gastrointestinal tracts of both humans and other mammals, causing permanent growth deficits (e.g., for hookworm infections of humans). Hookworms (Necator americanus, Ancylostoma duodenale, and Ancylostoma ceylanicum) infect 170-440 million humans, making these among the most important parasites. Of the three hookworm species commonly infecting humans, N. americanus is the most prevalent (~85% of infections). A usable draft genome of N. americanus has been published, but is incomplete. To enable further understanding of this key human parasite, we provide both a chromosomally-scaffolded genome assembly and a comprehensive protein-coding gene set for N. americanus.