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Related Experiment Videos

Gene conversion accounts for pilin structural changes and for reversible piliation "phase" changes in gonococci.

J Swanson1, S Bergstrom, J Boslego

  • 1NIH, NIAID, LMSF, Rocky Mountain Labs, Hamilton, MT.

Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek
|January 1, 1987
PubMed
Summary

Neisseria gonorrhoeae uses gene conversion to alter its pilin structure and antigenicity, potentially changing its disease-causing capabilities. This process involves incorporating DNA from silent pilin genes into the expressed gene.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Gc) exhibits pilus gene conversion, where silent partial pilin genes (PPG) are inserted into the complete pilin gene (CPG).
  • This recombination event can alter pilin structure and antigenicity, affecting Gc's phenotype and potential for immune evasion.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanisms and variations of pilin gene conversion in Neisseria gonorrhoeae strain MS11mk.
  • To determine if observed differences in pilin genes result from different silent partial pilin genes or varying segments from the same gene.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of pilus revertants and colony morphotype variants of Gc strain MS11mk.
  • Sequencing of the expressed pilin gene (as pilin mRNA) in each variant to identify genetic alterations.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Comparison of sequences to determine the source and extent of DNA incorporated via gene conversion.

    • Main Results:

    • Gene conversion events were detailed in strain MS11mk, revealing alterations in the expressed pilin gene.
    • Evidence suggests that gene conversion can involve different silent partial pilin genes or varying lengths of DNA from a single silent partial pilin gene.
    • Previous findings of gene conversion by PPG pilS1 copy 2 were corroborated, leading to structurally and antigenically distinct pilins.

    Conclusions:

    • Pilin gene conversion is a dynamic process in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, contributing to genetic diversity and potential adaptation.
    • Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective vaccines and treatments against gonococcal infections.