LcrV

PDB 1r6f EBI

LcrV

LcrV is a protein component of the Type III secretion system (T3SS) in the bacterium Yersinia pestis. This protein plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of the bacterium by facilitating the injection of effector proteins into host cells.

Structure

LcrV is a multifunctional protein that consists of several domains, including a C-terminal domain responsible for binding to the T3SS needle complex and an N-terminal domain that interacts with effector proteins. The structure of LcrV is essential for its function in the T3SS machinery.

Function

LcrV is a key component of the T3SS in Yersinia pestis. It acts as a molecular ruler to regulate the length of the T3SS needle and is involved in the translocation of effector proteins into host cells. Additionally, LcrV plays a role in modulating the host immune response to facilitate bacterial survival and replication.

Role in Pathogenesis

The presence of LcrV is essential for the virulence of Yersinia pestis. By facilitating the delivery of effector proteins into host cells, LcrV enables the bacterium to manipulate host cell signaling pathways and evade the immune response. This contributes to the pathogenicity of Yersinia pestis and its ability to cause diseases such as plague.

Interactions

LcrV interacts with various components of the T3SS machinery, including the needle complex and effector proteins. These interactions are crucial for the assembly and function of the T3SS apparatus, allowing Yersinia pestis to deliver virulence factors into host cells.

Clinical Significance

Understanding the role of LcrV in the pathogenesis of Yersinia pestis is essential for developing targeted therapies against plague and other diseases caused by this bacterium. Targeting LcrV or its interactions with the T3SS machinery could provide new strategies for combating Yersinia pestis infections.