How Francisella tularensis Infects Human Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Barel Monique, Hovanessian Ara G, Meibom Karin, Briand Jean-Paul, Dupuis Marion, Charbit Alain
Primary Institution: INSERM U570, Université Paris Descartes
Hypothesis
Can nucleolin serve as a receptor for Francisella tularensis and mediate its binding and internalization in human monocyte-like THP-1 cells?
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that the interaction between surface nucleolin and bacterial elongation factor Tu (EF-Tu) is crucial for the adhesion and entry of Francisella tularensis into human monocyte-like THP-1 cells.
Supporting Evidence
- Nucleolin was shown to be a receptor for Francisella tularensis Live Vaccine Strain (LVS).
- The HB-19 pseudopeptide inhibited LVS binding and infection of THP-1 cells.
- EF-Tu was detected on the bacterial surface and was shown to interact with nucleolin.
- Blocking the interaction between EF-Tu and nucleolin significantly reduced bacterial infection.
- Co-localization of EF-Tu and nucleolin was observed on the surface of THP-1 cells.
Takeaway
This study found that a protein on the surface of a bacteria called Francisella tularensis can stick to a receptor on human immune cells, helping the bacteria to get inside and cause infection.
Methodology
The study used fluorescence microscopy, electron microscopy, and various assays to evaluate the binding and infection of THP-1 cells by Francisella tularensis.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on THP-1 cells and may not fully represent the interactions in other types of human cells.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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