Neisseria gonorrhoeae G4-binding proteins that regulate pilin antigenic variation

Northwestern University At Chicago, Evanston IL

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Antigenic variation of the N. gonorrhoeae pilus is one of the reasons why long term immunity is difficult to achieve, as hosts can get reinfected. Av is dependent on both the RecF-like recombination pathway and the formation of a G4 structure upstream of the pilE promoter, but the exact mechanism is still unknown. The role of G4 structures in the cell is still controversial and understanding how the pilE G4 affects antigenic variation would help G4 structures to be accepted as biologically relevant. The goal of this project is to identify and characterize the proteins that assist in formation, stability, and resolution of the pilE G4 DNA structure in vivo. One of these new proteins could be a potential drug target for preventing recurring gonococcal infections.