Protein secretion plays a critical role in bacterial pathogenesis; the majority of identified pathogenicity determinants are secreted proteins. The mechanisms for protein secretion are largely uncharacterized in Gram-positive bacteria. Recently a novel secretion factor, SecA2, was identified in several Gram-positive pathogens. SecA2 is involved in secretion of virulence factors in at least four bacterial species and has been observed in the genomes of several other Gram-positive pathogens while being absent in non-pathogens. A homolog of SecA2 has been identified in Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax. I will identify secretion substrates of the SecA2 secretion system and determine if they play a role as novel virulence factors in anthrax pathogenesis. Studies will also be conducted to identify the regulatory mechanisms governing expression of SecA2 secreted substrates. Future studies of how these substrates interact with the host will give us a better understanding of host immunity and anthrax disease.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
1F32AI066830-01
Application #
6999024
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F13 (20))
Program Officer
Baker, Phillip J
Project Start
2005-08-01
Project End
2008-07-31
Budget Start
2005-08-01
Budget End
2006-07-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2005
Total Cost
$43,976
Indirect Cost
Name
University of California Berkeley
Department
Biochemistry
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
124726725
City
Berkeley
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
94704