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Sequence variability of the meningococcal lactoferrin-binding protein LbpB
A Pettersson1, J van der Biezen, V Joosten
1Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Gene
|May 8, 1999
Summary
Sequence variability in Neisseria meningitidis LbpB, a vaccine candidate, was analyzed. High variability in key regions presents challenges for vaccine development but offers potential for epidemiological tracking.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Vaccine Development
Background:
- Neisseria meningitidis is a significant human pathogen.
- The lactoferrin receptor (Lbp) facilitates N. meningitidis iron acquisition.
- LbpB is a key component of the lactoferrin receptor and a potential vaccine target.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the sequence variability of the LbpB protein from Neisseria meningitidis.
- To assess the implications of LbpB sequence diversity for vaccine development and epidemiological studies.
Main Methods:
- Amino acid sequencing of the LbpB protein from multiple N. meningitidis strains.
- Comparative analysis of LbpB sequences to identify regions of variability.
Main Results:
- LbpB sequences from five strains showed 70-80% amino acid identity.
- Two distinct regions with high variability and negative charge content were identified.
- One variable region exhibited length polymorphism, being absent in some strains.
- The second variable region, present in all strains, showed significant sequence divergence.
Conclusions:
- High sequence variability in LbpB poses challenges for developing a broadly protective meningococcal vaccine.
- The identified variable regions in LbpB may serve as valuable markers for epidemiological surveillance and strain typing.