Plasmid Encoded Virulence of Yersinia

摘要

The expression of virulence plasmid encoded virulence determinants is discussedand it is concluded that the three virulent species of Yersinia contain homologous virulence plasmids that encode a number of temperature inducible Ca(2+) regulated proteins (Yops (Yersinia outer membrane proteins)). Mapping and regulation of Yop genes is discussed and it is concluded that the expression of the Yops is regulated at the level of transcription involving negative as well as positive control elements encoded by the Ca(2+) region. Work which resulted in the conclusion that YopH and YopE are essential virulence determinants which obstruct the primary host defense by preventing phagocytosis is discussed.