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Three genes encode distinct AP33 proteins involved in Trichomonas vaginalis cytoadherence
1NIDR/NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892-4370, USA.
Molecular Microbiology
|June 11, 1998
Summary
Trichomonas vaginalis uses surface proteins like AP33 to adhere to host cells, initiating infection. This study characterized the AP33 adhesin, revealing its genetic basis and adhesive function.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
- Host-Pathogen Interactions
Background:
- Mucosal pathogen adherence is crucial for infection.
- Trichomonas vaginalis colonizes the human urogenital tract using surface proteins AP65, AP51, AP33, and AP23.
Purpose of the Study:
- To further characterize the Trichomonas vaginalis AP33 adhesin.
- To investigate the genetic basis and adhesive properties of AP33.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of six cDNA clones for AP33.
- Restriction mapping and Southern analysis to determine gene structure.
- Full-length sequencing and protein analysis of recombinant AP33.
- Database searches for sequence homology.
Main Results:
- Identified three similar AP33 genes with a semi-conservative genomic arrangement.
- Confirmed a 930bp open reading frame encoding a ~33kDa protein with high DNA and protein identity.
- Recombinant AP33 proteins exhibited adhesive properties similar to native AP33 and showed homology to succinyl-CoA synthetase alpha-subunit.
Conclusions:
- AP33 is a single-copy gene in T. vaginalis isolates with a conserved genomic arrangement.
- The AP33 adhesin plays a role in host cell adherence, similar to other adhesins.
- These findings highlight the complexity of the T. vaginalis host-parasite relationship.