Identification and characterisation of a novel adhesin Ifp in Yersinia pseudotuberculosis
2011

Identification of a New Adhesin in Yersinia pseudotuberculosis

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Philippa CR Strong, Stewart J Hinchliffe, Hannah Patrick, Steve Atkinson, Olivia L Champion, Brendan W Wren

Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

Hypothesis

Ifp may be an adhesin in Yersinia pseudotuberculosis.

Conclusion

A new Y. pseudotuberculosis adhesin has been identified and characterised.

Supporting Evidence

  • Ifp binds directly to human HEp-2 epithelial cells.
  • An ifp defined mutant showed a reduction in adhesion to HEp-2 cells.
  • Ifp is expressed at late log phase at 37°C.
  • Mutations in Ifp can disrupt its binding ability.

Takeaway

Scientists found a new protein in a germ that helps it stick to human cells, which could help us understand how it causes disease.

Methodology

The study involved gene sequencing, protein binding assays, and infection models using Galleria mellonella larvae.

Limitations

The study primarily focused on in vitro assays and a single infection model.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2180-11-85

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