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Free keywords:
conjugation; horizontal gene transfer; pilus; F-pilus; IncP plasmids; Ti plasmids; covalent linkage; TrbC
Abstract:
The primary component of the sex pilus encoded by IncP (RP4) and Ti plasmids has been identified as a circular pilin protein with a peptide bond between the amino and carboxyl terminus. Here, we review the key experiments that led to this discovery, and the present mechanistic model for pilin-precursor processing and the cyclization reaction. In addition, we discuss the implications for horizontal gene transfer in bacterial conjugation.
Abstract 2:
The primary component of the pilus encoded by IncP and Ti plasmids has been identified as a cyclic protein whose amino and carboxyl termini are joined by covalent head-to-tail peptide bonds. Here, a possible cyclization mechanism and the rold of cyclic peptides in horizontal gene transfer are discussed.
