Prevalence and Detailed Mapping of the Gonococcal Genetic Island in Neisseria meningitidis

摘要: The 57-kb gonococcal genetic island (GGI) encodes a type IV secretion system (T4SS) that is found in most strains of N. gonorrhoeae. This T4SS functions to secrete single-stranded DNA active natural transformation. GGI has also been some meningitidis. We screened 126 isolates meningitidis and the 17.5% strains, with prevalence varying widely among serogroups. significant number serogroup C, W-135, X but was not A, B, or Y. Through detailed PCR mapping sequencing, we identified five distinct types meningococci. sequencing assay revealed likely integrated into meningococcal chromosome by site-specific recombinase XerCD can be excised lost from genome. Functional studies showed contrast T4SS, does DNA, nor it confer Ton-independent intracellular survival. Deletion genes did affect association invasion host cells. These results demonstrate proportion while carry multiple insertions deletions GGI, other intact may produce functional systems.