1. Random exploration of the Laribacter hongkongensis genome was performed. A total of 1957 random sequence tags were sequenced and analysed, which represents about 26% of the L hongkongensis genome.
2. Random exploration of the genome can be completed at a fraction of the complete genome costing. The limited partial sequence obtained in this study revealed ample evidence about the genetic composition and potential virulence factors of L hongkongensis.
3. Different classes of potential virulence factors were identified. Among these, a complete urease cassette, which is a major virulence factor in another gastrointestinal pathogen, Helicobacter pylori, was observed.
4. Random exploration also provided a foundation for the complete genome sequencing of L hongkongensis.