A Trigger Enzyme in Mycoplasma pneumoniae: Impact of the Glycerophosphodiesterase GlpQ on Virulence and Gene Expression Control of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Virulence
2011
The Role of GlpQ in Mycoplasma pneumoniae Virulence
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Schmidl Sebastian R., Otto Andreas, Lluch-Senar Maria, Piñol Jaume, Busse Julia, Becher Dörte, Stülke Jörg
Primary Institution: Georg-August-University Göttingen
Hypothesis
GlpQ is essential for the virulence and gene expression control of Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Conclusion
GlpQ is crucial for hydrogen peroxide production and cytotoxicity in Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Supporting Evidence
- GlpQ is the only active glycerophosphodiesterase in Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
- Inactivation of the glpQ gene resulted in reduced growth and loss of cytotoxicity.
- GlpQ regulates the expression of several genes related to virulence.
- Hydrogen peroxide production is essential for the cytotoxic effects of Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Takeaway
GlpQ helps Mycoplasma pneumoniae make a harmful substance that can damage human cells, and it also controls how the bacteria express certain genes.
Methodology
The study involved biochemical, genetic, and physiological analyses of Mycoplasma pneumoniae strains with mutations in the glpQ and mpn566 genes.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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