How Pseudomonas Evades Immune Recognition of Flagellin in Mammals and Plants
Author Information
Author(s): Bardoel Bart W., van der Ent Sjoerd, Pel Michiel J. C., Tommassen Jan, Pieterse Corné M. J., van Kessel Kok P. M., van Strijp Jos A. G.
Primary Institution: University Medical Center Utrecht
Hypothesis
We hypothesized that bacteria secrete proteins that interfere with recognition of TLRs.
Conclusion
Pseudomonas aeruginosa secretes alkaline protease AprA, which degrades flagellin to evade immune recognition in both mammals and plants.
Supporting Evidence
- Alkaline protease AprA effectively degrades the TLR5 ligand monomeric flagellin.
- AprA prevents flagellin-mediated immune responses in Arabidopsis thaliana.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa aprA mutants induce enhanced activation of TLR5 signaling.
- AprA does not degrade polymeric flagellin, preserving bacterial motility.
- AprI, an inhibitor of AprA, can block the degradation of flagellin.
Takeaway
Pseudomonas aeruginosa has a special protein that helps it hide from the immune system by breaking down a part of itself that the immune system usually recognizes.
Methodology
The study involved screening bacterial supernatants for TLR5 inhibitors and analyzing the effects of alkaline protease on flagellin recognition in cell cultures and plants.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on a single bacterial species and its interactions with specific immune receptors.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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