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The neisserial 37 kDa ferric binding protein (FbpA)
C Ferreirós1, M T Criado, J A Gómez
1Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain. mpcfytc@usc.es
Summary
Ferric binding protein (FbpA) in Neisseria is crucial for iron uptake. Purified FbpA elicits bactericidal antibodies in mice, suggesting its potential role in Neisseria pathogenesis and immune response.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Bacterial Pathogenesis
Background:
- Ferric binding protein (FbpA) is a key iron-regulated protein in pathogenic Neisseria.
- Its conservation across pathogenic Neisseria species suggests a significant role in iron acquisition.
- The precise cellular location of FbpA has been debated, with evidence for both periplasmic and outer surface presence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic organization and potential function of the FbpA iron uptake system in Neisseria.
- To evaluate the antigenic properties and immunogenicity of FbpA, particularly its ability to induce bactericidal antibodies.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the DNA sequence downstream of the fbpA gene to identify related genes and operon structure.
- Characterization of the FbpA protein, including its antigenicity and ability to elicit antibody responses in animal models.
Main Results:
- Identification of an operon comprising fbpA, fbpB (cytoplasmic permease), and fbpC (nucleotide-binding protein), suggesting a complete iron transport system.
- FbpA demonstrated high antigenicity in mice, with cross-reactive antibodies across species.
- Purified FbpA successfully induced a notable response of bactericidal antibodies in mice.
Conclusions:
- The fbpABC operon likely constitutes a novel Neisseria iron transport system.
- FbpA is a potent antigen capable of inducing bactericidal antibodies in vivo, highlighting its potential as a vaccine candidate or diagnostic target.