Virulence genes, proteins, and their use
OwnerChristoph Tanginventor
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Abstract
A series of genes form Neisseria meningitidis are shown to encode products which are responsible for DNA uptake. The identification of these genes therefore allows attenuated microorganisms to be produced that have a reduced ability to take up DNA. Microorganisms of the invention may be used in the production of genetically stable mutant microorganisms. The genes or their encoded products can be used in the manufacture of vaccines for therapeutic application.
Claims18
A microorganism comprising a mutation that disrupts the expression of a gene comprising any of the nucleotide sequences identified herein as SEQ ID NOS. 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 21, or a related molecule having at least 40% sequence identity, for therapeutic use.
A microorganism according to any preceding claim, further comprising a mutation that disrupts the expression of a virulence gene.
A microorganism according to any preceding claim, comprising a heterologous antigen, therapeutic peptide or nucleic acid.
A microorganism according to any preceding claim, wherein the sequence identity is at least 60%.
A microorganism according to any preceding claim, wherein the sequence identity is at least 90%.
A vaccine comprising a microorganism according to any preceding claim.
A peptide encoded by an operon including any of the nucleotide sequences identified herein as SEQ ID NOS. 1, 3, 5, 7, 9. 11, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 21 of N. meningitidis, or a related molecule having at least 40% sequence similarity or identity at the peptide or nucleotide level in a Gram-negative bacterium, or a functional fragment thereof, for therapeutic or diagnostic use.
A polynucleotide encoding a peptide according to any of claims 10 to 14, or its complement, for therapeutic or diagnostic use.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.