How Two Proteins Control Virulence in Francisella tularensis
Author Information
Author(s): Charity James C, Costante-Hamm Michelle M, Balon Emmy L, Boyd Dana H, Rubin Eric J, Dove Simon L
Primary Institution: Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School
Hypothesis
How do the proteins MglA and SspA cooperate to control virulence gene expression in Francisella tularensis?
Conclusion
MglA and SspA work together to regulate virulence gene expression in Francisella tularensis.
Supporting Evidence
- MglA and SspA associate with RNA polymerase in F. tularensis.
- The absence of SspA results in decreased levels of virulence gene expression.
- MglA and SspA interact with one another directly.
- Both proteins are required for the expression of key virulence genes.
Takeaway
Two proteins in a germ help it be more dangerous. They work together to turn on the genes that make the germ strong.
Methodology
The study used directed proteomics, bacterial two-hybrid assays, and genome-wide expression analyses to investigate the roles of MglA and SspA.
Limitations
The study could not determine if SspA homomers can associate with RNAP.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website