GplR1, an unusual TetR-like transcription factor in <i>Mycobacterium abscessus,</i> controls the production of cell wall glycopeptidolipids, colony morphology, and virulence.

ABSTRACT: Mycobacterium abscessus is a major human pathogen, mostly infecting people with pre-existing lung conditions, such as cystic fibrosis. The production of glycopeptidolipids (GPL) is a major determinant of virulence of this bacterium, with clinical isolates that lack GPL generally exhibiting more aggressive clinical behavior. The current paradigm is that GPL production is abolished in vivo via irreversible, spontaneous mutations taking place as part of in-host evolution. Little is known about the mechanisms or extent to which GPL production may be regulated. Here, we describe an unusual TetR-like transcription factor of M. abscessus, mab_1638, that appears to be a strong positive regulator of the entire GPL biosynthesis and export gene cluster through a combinatio

SUBMITTER: Shell SS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12455991 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature