The WxxxE proteins in microbial pathogenesis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology and Molecular Pathogenesis

Background:

• Pathogenic bacteria utilize effector proteins to manipulate host cells, aiding infection.
• The conserved WxxxE motif is found in effectors from diverse pathogens, including enteric, non-enteric, and plant pathogens.
• These effectors are delivered via various secretion systems, notably the Type Three Secretion System (T3SS).

Approach:

• This review consolidates established and predicted functions of WxxxE effectors.
• It examines their roles across different microbial species and secretion pathways.
• The analysis includes effectors associated with T3SS, Type II, and Type IV secretion systems.

Key Points:

• WxxxE effectors are implicated in critical cellular processes such as actin organization, inflammation, vacuole/tubule formation, and apoptosis.
• The WxxxE motif is also present in Toll/interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor (TIR) domains in both bacterial and host cells.
• Their functions extend beyond enteric pathogens, impacting non-enteric and plant pathogens.

Conclusions:

• WxxxE effectors represent a conserved functional module across a broad range of pathogens.
• Understanding these effectors is crucial for deciphering bacterial pathogenesis and host-pathogen interactions.
• Further research into WxxxE effectors can reveal novel therapeutic targets.