Study of the meningococcal outer membrane protein NhhA and its role in host-pathogen interaction
On the surface of the bacterial membrane are several factors present that are expressed by the bacteria to facilitate bacterial movement or to mediate attachment to cells of the host organism.
One of these factors is NhhA (Neisseria his/hsf homologue) and it was shown that NhhA is important for bacterial attachment to epithelial cells (Sjölinder et al. Infect Immun 2008). Furthermore, the recombinant protein is able to induce bactericidal antibodies and hence has also been considered as a potential vaccine candidate. Direct binding between NhhA and the extracellular matrix protein laminin and between NhhA and heparan sulphate has been demonstrated. The goal of this project will be to expand our knowledge about the role of NhhA in meningococcal pathogenesis.
Last updated:
November 22, 2011
Page editor:
Daniel Vare
Source: GMT
