Francisella tularensis cDNA and Antigen

Francisella tularensis is a type of bacteria that can cause tularemia, which is a dangerous disease that can affect humans and animals. Scientists have discovered that certain proteins produced by this bacterium, including the 17 kDa major membrane protein TUL4, protective antigen, and Membrane Protein-O-antigen protein, can provide immunity against the disease. In this article, we will explore the potential of these protective antigens in preventing tularemia and saving lives.

Protective antigens are substances that can trigger an immune response in the body, leading to the production of antibodies that can protect against infection. Studies have shown that these protective antigens can provide immunity against tularemia in animal models. Therefore, individuals who are exposed to the bacterium can potentially be protected from developing the disease. Additionally, researchers are investigating the potential use of these protective antigens in vaccines for humans.

One of the most promising protective antigens produced by Francisella tularensis is the 17 kDa major membrane protein TUL4. This protein is present on the surface of the bacterium and plays a crucial role in its virulence. However, it has also been found to elicit a strong immune response in animal models, making it a promising candidate for vaccine development.

Protective antigen and Membrane Protein-O-antigen protein are two other important protective antigens produced by Francisella tularensis. Protective antigen is a component of the bacterium’s capsule, which protects it from the host’s immune system. However, it can also stimulate the production of antibodies that can protect against tularemia. Membrane Protein-O-antigen protein, on the other hand, is a structural component of the bacterium’s outer membrane that has been shown to provide immunity in animal models.

In conclusion, the discovery of protective antigens such as the 17 kDa major membrane protein TUL4, protective antigen, and Membrane Protein-O-antigen protein has provided new hope in the fight against tularemia. By understanding the potential of these protective antigens, scientists can develop effective vaccines that can save lives and prevent the spread of the disease.

The use of recombinant proteins/cDNA in academic research and therapeutic applications has skyrocketed. However, in heterologous expression systems, successful recombinant protein expression is dependent on a variety of factors, including codon preference, RNA secondary structure, and GC content. When compared to pre-optimization, more and more experimental results demonstrated that the expression level was dramatically increased, ranging from two to hundred times depending on the gene. Bioclone has created a proprietary technology platform that has resulted in the creation of over 6,000 artificially synthesized codon-optimized cDNA clones (cloned in E. coli expression Vector), which are ready for production of the recombinant proteins.

Some of these applications are:

Identification and characterization of virulence factors: The cDNA of F. tularensis can be used to study the expression of genes involved in virulence and antibiotic resistance. This information can aid in the development of new treatments for tularemia.

Diagnostic tests: Recombinant antigens of F. tularensis can be used as target antigens in diagnostic tests such as ELISA (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay) for the detection of tularemia in humans and animals.

Vaccine development: The recombinant antigens of F. tularensis can be used as potential vaccine targets to protect against tularemia.

Antibiotic resistance studies: The cDNA of F. tularensis can be used to study the expression of genes involved in antibiotic resistance, which can help in the development of new antibiotics to combat antibiotic-resistant strains of this bacterium.

Biothreat assessment: F. tularensis is considered a potential bioterrorism agent, and the cDNA and recombinant antigen of this bacterium can be used in the development of rapid and sensitive diagnostic tests for detecting its presence in the environment.