A research group led by biochemist Luiz Pedro Carvalho, Ph.D., of The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation and Technology, has found that one of TB’s supposedly “known” genes has a completely unexpected biological role, with far-reaching implications.
Under stress, the normally quiet enzyme pops into action, like a jack-in-the-box. The group’s discovery, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, or PNAS, the week of August 17, suggests that TB’s genome may hold more surprises than previously thought.
The work could impact research on TB antibiotic resistance and new drug development, Carvalho said. The discovery also raises important questions for pathogens that carry similar enzymes, including those that cause leprosy and malaria.
Read more about Surprise! This ‘Known’ TB Gene Springs to Action Under Stress.
