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Detection of mip-like sequences and Mip-related proteins within the family Rickettsiaceae
N P Cianciotto1, W O'Connell, G A Dasch
1Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611.
Abstract:
The Mip surface protein, a prokaryotic analog of the FK506-binding proteins, enhances the ability of Legionella pneumophila to infect macrophages and protozoa. Using mip-specific probes and low-stringency Southern hybridizations, we have detected DNA sequences homologous to mip within Coxiella burnetii and Rochalimaea quintana. Using specific anti-Mip antisera and immunoblot analysis, we also detected Mip-related proteins within these bacteria as well as within Rickettsia and Ehrlichia species. These data suggest that Mip-related proteins have broad significance for host-parasite interactions. However, they also indicate that care must be exercised when using mip probes or anti-Mip antibodies for the detection of Legionella organisms in water or clinical samples.
Insights
The Mip surface protein aids bacterial infection. Mip-related proteins are found in various bacteria, suggesting broad roles in host-parasite interactions and impacting diagnostic methods.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Bacterial Pathogenesis
Background:
- The Mip surface protein of Legionella pneumophila, an analog of FK506-binding proteins, is known to enhance macrophage and protozoan infection.
- Understanding the distribution and function of Mip-related proteins is crucial for comprehending host-parasite interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and significance of Mip-related DNA sequences and proteins in other bacterial species beyond Legionella.
- To assess the broader implications of Mip-related proteins in host-parasite interactions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized mip-specific DNA probes and low-stringency Southern hybridizations to detect homologous sequences in bacterial DNA.
- Employed specific anti-Mip antisera and immunoblot analysis to identify Mip-related proteins in bacterial lysates.
Main Results:
- Detected DNA sequences homologous to mip in Coxiella burnetii and Rochalimaea quintana.
- Identified Mip-related proteins in C. burnetii, R. quintana, Rickettsia species, and Ehrlichia species.
Conclusions:
- Mip-related proteins appear to have a significant and widespread role in host-parasite interactions across diverse bacterial genera.
- The presence of Mip-related proteins in various bacteria necessitates caution when using mip probes or anti-Mip antibodies for detecting Legionella in environmental or clinical samples.