Abstract
Bacterial small RNAs (sRNAs) posttranscriptionally regulate gene expressions involved in various biological processes, including pathogenicity. Our previous study identified sRNAs, the expression of which was up-regulated in Bordetella pertussis, the causative agent of whooping cough, upon tracheal colonization of the bacteria; however, their roles in bacterial infection remain unknown. Here, we found that one sRNA, Bpr4, contributes to B. pertussis infection by posttranscriptionally up-regulating filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA), a major adhesin of the bacteria. Bpr4 bound to the 5' untranslated region of fhaB mRNA encoding FHA and inhibited its degradation mediated by RNaseE. Our results demonstrated that Bpr4 up-regulation was triggered by the interference of flagellar rotation, which caused the disengagement of MotA, a flagellar stator. Subsequently, MotA activated a diguanylate cyclase to generate cyclic di-GMP, which plays a role in Bpr4 up-regulation through the RisK/RisA two-component system. Our findings indicate that a flagellum-triggered sensory system contributes to B. pertussis infection.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
