Recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum UPF0348 protein lp_1534 (lp_1534)

Overview of Lactobacillus plantarum

Lactobacillus plantarum is a versatile and adaptable lactic acid bacterium (LAB) commonly found in various fermented foods and the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals . It is well-regarded for its probiotic properties, contributing to gut health, immune system modulation, and pathogen inhibition . The bacterium's ability to produce a diverse array of metabolites during fermentation, including peptides, organic acids, and antimicrobial compounds, enhances both food quality and health benefits .

Recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum UPF0348 protein lp_1534 (lp_1534)

The Lactobacillus plantarum UPF0348 protein lp_1534 (lp_1534) refers to a protein originating from Lactobacillus plantarum. Employing recombinant DNA technology, this protein can be expressed in various host organisms to facilitate research and applications . For example, a study successfully expressed a recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in Lactobacillus plantarum, demonstrating the potential of this approach for producing antigens and other therapeutic proteins .

Key Research Findings and Applications

1. Surface Layer Adhesive Protein (SLAP) and Intestinal Protection: Lactobacillus plantarum produces a surface layer adhesive protein (SLAP) that protects intestinal epithelial cells from injury caused by enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) . SLAP enhances the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier . Treatment with SLAP also increases trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TER) and reduces macromolecular permeability, indicating a укрепление of the epithelial barrier . Furthermore, SLAP activates extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation, contributing to the protective effects observed in epithelial cells .

2. Antimicrobial Metabolites: Metabolomic analysis of Lactobacillus plantarum strains has identified several metabolites with antimicrobial activity . These include amino acids, nucleotides, organic acids, and oligopeptides . Integrating metabolomic data with genomic annotations has enabled the validation of ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) and the discovery of novel bioactive compounds . For instance, the oligopeptide val-leu-pro-val-pro-gln, found in both intracellular and extracellular fractions, may contribute to the strain’s antimicrobial strength .

3. Recombinant Expression of Heterologous Proteins: Recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum strains can be engineered to express heterologous proteins, expanding their potential applications . For example, the FomA protein from Fusobacterium nucleatum, when expressed on the surface of Lactobacillus plantarum, can modulate the immune response and protect against infections . Studies have shown that recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum expressing FomA can activate NK cells and macrophages, reduce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and enhance the production of immunoglobulins .

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