Recombinant Vibrio vulnificus Tetraacyldisaccharide 4'-kinase (lpxK)
Description
Role of LpxK in Bacterial Pathogenesis
LpxK plays a pivotal role in the lipid A biosynthesis pathway, which is vital for the survival of Gram-negative bacteria. In pathogens like Vibrio vulnificus, this enzyme is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the outer membrane, thereby contributing to the bacterium's virulence and resistance to environmental stresses .
Recombinant Vibrio vulnificus Tetraacyldisaccharide 4'-kinase (LpxK)
Recombinant LpxK refers to the enzyme produced through genetic engineering techniques, allowing for its expression in a host organism different from its native source. This approach enables researchers to study the enzyme's properties and functions in detail, which is crucial for understanding its role in bacterial pathogenesis and for developing inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents.
Potential as a Drug Target
Given the critical role of LpxK in bacterial survival, it is an attractive target for the development of antibacterial drugs. Inhibitors of LpxK could disrupt the lipid A biosynthesis pathway, compromising the integrity of the bacterial outer membrane and ultimately leading to bacterial death. This approach is particularly relevant for pathogens like Vibrio vulnificus, where traditional antibiotic resistance is a growing concern .
Table: Potential Inhibitors of LpxK from Pseudomonas aeruginosa
| Compound ID | Chemical Nature | Binding Affinity |
|---|---|---|
| STOCK6S-33288 | Triazole derivative | High |
| STOCK6S-35740 | Triazole derivative | High |
| STOCK6S-37164 | Synthetic compound | Moderate |
| STOCK6S-39892 | Synthetic compound | Moderate |
| STOCK6S-43621 | Synthetic compound | Moderate |
These compounds have been identified through pharmacoinformatics approaches as potential inhibitors of LpxK in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, highlighting the feasibility of targeting this enzyme for antibacterial therapy .
Research Challenges and Future Directions
While the concept of targeting LpxK for therapeutic purposes is promising, several challenges need to be addressed:
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Specificity and Efficacy: Developing inhibitors that are specific to Vibrio vulnificus LpxK without affecting host enzymes is crucial.
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Resistance Development: The potential for bacteria to develop resistance to LpxK inhibitors must be considered.
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Toxicity and Safety: Ensuring that any developed inhibitors are safe for human use is essential.
Future research should focus on the structural and functional characterization of Vibrio vulnificus LpxK, as well as the design and testing of specific inhibitors.
Product Specs
Note: While we prioritize shipping the format currently in stock, please specify your format preference during order placement for customized preparation.
Note: All proteins are shipped with standard blue ice packs. Dry ice shipping requires prior arrangement and incurs additional charges.
The tag type is determined during production. If you require a specific tag, please inform us, and we will prioritize its development.
Target Background
This protein catalyzes the transfer of the gamma-phosphate from ATP to the 4'-position of a tetraacyldisaccharide 1-phosphate intermediate (DS-1-P), resulting in the formation of tetraacyldisaccharide 1,4'-bis-phosphate (lipid IVA).
KEGG: vvy:VV2355
