The LysR-type transcriptional regulator VirR is required for expression of the virulence gene vapA of Rhodococcus equi ATCC 33701.

ABSTRACT: The virulence of the intracellular pathogen Rhodococcus equi in foals is dependent on the presence of an 81-kb virulence plasmid encoding the virulence protein VapA. Expression of this protein is induced by exposure to oxidative stress, high temperatures, and low pHs, which reflect the conditions encountered by R. equi when it enters the host environment. The aim of this study was to determine whether the LysR-type transcriptional regulator VirR, which is encoded by the virulence plasmid, is required for the expression of vapA. It was shown that the virR gene is cotranscribed with four downstream genes, one of which encodes a two-component response regulator. The expression of VapA, as monitored by Western blotting, was completely dependent on the presence of virR. Maximal expression was o

SUBMITTER: Russell DA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC516814 | biostudies-literature | 2004 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature