The PE and PPE proteins of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis: exploring their potential as variable antigens. (360G-Wellcome-078256_Z_05_Z)
The PE and PPE proteins of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis are encoded by large, multigene families which account for approximately 10% of the genome. Although the function of these proteins remains unclear, they are widely speculated to represent a source of antigenic variation, and thus a means for these pathogens to evade host immune defences. The overall aim of the proposed study is to determine whether the PE/PPE proteins do indeed represent variable antigens. Specifically, I will test the hypothesis that the pattern of PE/PPE expression changes during the course of infection and that this in turn modulates the host immune response. After characterising PE/PPE expression profiles in vitro, I will use two experimental models: infection of mice with M. tuberculosis, and infection of cattle with the closely-related M. bovis to examine in vivo expression and T cell recognition. These models are well-established in the sponsoring and collaborating laboratories and there is evidence in both systems that the bacterial phenotype and the immune repertoire change over the course of infection. In parallel with this in vivo approach, I will investigate the control of PE and PPE expression by identification and characterization of relevant transcriptional regulators in M. tuberculosis.
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Grant Details
Amount Awarded | 490127 |
Applicant Surname | Sampson |
Approval Committee | Basic Science Interview Committee |
Award Date | 2005-12-13T00:00:00+00:00 |
Financial Year | 2005/06 |
Grant Programme: Title | Research Career Development Fellowship |
Internal ID | 078256/Z/05/Z |
Lead Applicant | Prof Samantha Sampson |
Partnership Value | 490127 |
Planned Dates: End Date | 2010-05-31T00:00:00+00:00 |
Planned Dates: Start Date | 2006-02-01T00:00:00+00:00 |
Recipient Org: Country | United Kingdom |
Region | Greater London |
Sponsor(s) | Prof Douglas Young |