Characterization of Mce4A protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: role in invasion and survival
2008

Role of Mce4A Protein in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Invasion and Survival

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Saini Neeraj Kumar, Sharma Monika, Chandolia Amita, Pasricha Rashmi, Brahmachari Vani, Bose Mridula

Primary Institution: Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India

Hypothesis

Does the Mce4A protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis play a role in cell invasion and survival within host cells?

Conclusion

Mce4A protein is crucial for the invasion and survival of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in host cells, suggesting its role in persistent infection.

Supporting Evidence

  • Mce4A protein is expressed during the stationary phase of M. tuberculosis culture.
  • Recombinant E. coli expressing Mce4A can invade HeLa cells.
  • Mce4A enhances survival of E. coli in human macrophages.
  • Statistical analysis showed significant survival advantage for E. coli expressing Mce4A compared to control.

Takeaway

The Mce4A protein helps bacteria get into cells and survive there, which might help them stay in the body for a long time.

Methodology

The study involved using recombinant E. coli expressing Mce4A to assess its role in cell invasion and survival in human macrophages.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.005

Statistical Significance

p<0.005

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2180-8-200

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