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Updated: Sep 15, 2025

A Fluorescence-based Method to Study Bacterial Gene Regulation in Infected Tissues
Published on: February 19, 2019
Iron-sulfur proteins in mycobacteria: master regulators of physiology and pathogenesis
Valentin Berdal1, Béatrice Py2, Sandrine Ollagnier de Choudens3
1Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 9004, Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier (IRIM), Université de Montpellier, 1919 route de Mende, 34293, Montpellier, France.
Abstract:
Iron-sulfur ([Fe-S]) cluster proteins are essential cofactors that support key biological processes in bacteria. Among the various [Fe-S] protein biogenesis systems (ISC, SUF, NIF, MIS, SMS), mycobacterial species rely exclusively on the sulfur utilization factor (SUF) machinery for [Fe-S] cluster biogenesis. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of the SUF system in bacteria and compare it with other [Fe-S] protein biogenesis systems. We outline the cellular sources of iron and sulfur in mycobacteria, propose a global model for [Fe-S] cluster assembly, and present an overview of [Fe-S] proteins in Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other mycobacterial species, emphasizing their roles in virulence, persistence, metabolism, and antibiotic resistance. Finally, we discuss emerging inhibitors targeting [Fe-S]-dependent pathways and their potential as antimycobacterial agents. Together, this overview provides a framework for unraveling the complexity of [Fe-S]-based metabolism in mycobacteria and highlights new opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
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