Recombinant Putative prophage phiRv2 integrase (Rv2659c, MT2735)
Description
Gene Identification and Genomic Context
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Gene locus: Rv2659c (MT2735) in the M. tuberculosis H37Rv genome .
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Prophage association: Part of the phiRv2 prophage, one of two prophages in the M. tuberculosis genome .
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Homology: No direct homologs identified in non-pathogenic mycobacteria like Mycobacterium smegmatis .
Key Features:
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Protein Name | Putative prophage phiRv2 integrase |
| UniProt ID | P9WMB3 |
| Function | Site-specific recombination for prophage integration |
| Structural Domains | Presumed integrase catalytic domain (based on phage integrase motifs) |
| Localization | Not experimentally confirmed; predicted cytoplasmic or membrane-bound |
Expression System:
Recombinant forms are typically expressed in E. coli or M. smegmatis using plasmid vectors (e.g., pNIT-Myc) . Western blot confirmation is required to verify expression .
Functional Role in Mycobacterial Pathogenicity
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Prophage integration: Mediates stable incorporation of phiRv2 into the host genome, a critical step for lysogeny .
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Virulence modulation: While direct evidence for Rv2659c is limited, phiRv2 prophage genes (e.g., Rv2650c) enhance stress resistance and intracellular survival in macrophages .
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Evolutionary significance: Prophage genes like Rv2659c may contribute to M. tuberculosis’s adaptation from environmental to pathogenic states .
Experimental Data Gaps:
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No peer-reviewed studies directly characterize Rv2659c’s biochemical activity or structure.
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Functional inferences are drawn from:
Indirect Evidence from PhiRv2 Studies:
Future Research Directions
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Structural analysis: Resolve crystal structure to identify catalytic residues.
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Knockout studies: Assess phenotypic changes in M. tuberculosis lacking Rv2659c.
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Host interaction screens: Identify bacterial or host proteins interacting with Rv2659c.
