The Hrp pilus: learning from flagella.

Plant pathogenic bacteria deliver avirulence and virulence effector proteins into plant cells via the hrp-gene-encoded type III secretion system. A key component of this secretion system is a surface appendage called the Hrp pilus. Recent results suggest that the Hrp pilus serves as a conduit for type III protein secretion and that it is assembled in a manner similar to the flagellum. The Hrp pilus is likely to be the functional equivalent of the needle extension, assembled by type III secretion systems of mammalian pathogenic bacteria.

Duke Scholars

Author Sheng-Yang He Biology