Genomic analysis of zinc homeostasis in Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Zn2+ is involved in several cellular processes and the maintenance of cellular Zn2+ status is essential for life. Therefore, an improved understanding of zinc acquisition and metabolism is of great significance, especially in important pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis whose capacity to survive within the phagosomal compartment is fundamental for its pathogenicity. A crucial point is the bacterial ability to compete with the host for nutrients, and the acquisition of metal ions, such as iron and zinc.