The moonlighting protein fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate aldolase of Neisseria meningitidis: surface localization and role in host cell adhesion (original) (raw)

2010, Molecular Microbiology

AI-generated Abstract

Fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate aldolases (FBA) are cytoplasmic glycolytic enzymes known for their non-glycolytic functions found on bacterial surfaces. This study investigates the surface localization of FBA in Neisseria meningitidis and its role in host cell adhesion. Results demonstrated that FBA, despite lacking secretion signals, is present on the outer membrane, accessible for antibody binding, and crucial for optimal adhesion to human cells without affecting bacterial growth. The findings suggest that FBA functions as a virulence factor, contributing to the pathogen's ability to adhere and potentially invade host tissues.