Recombinant Yersinia pestis F1 antigen protein (His tag)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

The F1 antigen of Yersinia pestis also known as Caf1 capsule protein plays a mechanical role in the formation of a protective capsule around the bacterium. This capsule prevents phagocytosis by host immune cells aiding the bacterium in evading the immune response. The F1 antigen has a molecular mass of about 17.2 kDa and is expressed on the surface of Yersinia pestis predominantly under conditions that favor infection such as at body temperature.

Biological function summary

Yersinia pestis F1 antigen functions as a major virulence factor. It assembles into a fibrillar structure forming a dense capsule that physically shields the bacterial cell. This protein is sometimes considered to participate in a larger complex involving other capsular proteins that stabilize its structure and function. The capsule ensures that the pathogen survives in hostile environments within its host contributing to the bacterium's invasive capability.

Pathways

The role of Yersinia pestis F1 antigen intersects with the host-pathogen interaction pathways. It does not directly take part in metabolism of the bacterium but rather acts in the immune evasion pathway. Mechanisms of immune evasion involve proteins like the LcrV protein as both contribute to the bacterium's ability to avoid immune detection fostering successful infection and dissemination in the host.

F1 antigen is directly linked to the pathogenicity of plague caused by Yersinia pestis. The capsule formed by F1 antigen is a major factor in bubonic and pneumonic plague as it allows the pathogen to establish infection and progress without being eliminated by host defenses. This antigen also connects with the LcrV protein together complicating the host immune response and furthering disease development.