T.pallidum p47
Description
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
Treponema pallidum is a spirochete bacterium responsible for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection. The p47 protein, also known as Tp47 or Tpp47, is a significant antigen of Treponema pallidum. Recombinant p47 protein is produced through genetic engineering techniques, where the gene encoding this protein is expressed in a host organism, typically Escherichia coli, to produce large quantities of the protein for research and diagnostic purposes.
The p47 protein is a 47-kilodalton lipoprotein that plays a crucial role in the bacterium’s physiology and pathogenicity. It is an integral membrane protein and is involved in various cellular processes. The protein has been identified as a putative D,D-carboxypeptidase, which means it may release amino acids sequentially from a protein’s C-terminus . This activity is zinc-dependent and may contribute to the bacterium’s motility by decreasing the cross-linking of peptidoglycan in the cell wall .
Recombinant p47 protein is produced by cloning the gene encoding the p47 protein into an expression vector, which is then introduced into a host organism such as Escherichia coli. The host organism expresses the protein, which can be purified and used for various applications. The recombinant p47 protein is typically produced with high purity, often exceeding 90%, and is suitable for use in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and Western blotting (WB) techniques .
Recombinant p47 protein is widely used in research and diagnostic applications. It is a critical component in the serological diagnosis of syphilis. The protein’s antigenic properties make it an excellent target for detecting antibodies in the sera of infected individuals. Studies have shown that recombinant p47 protein can achieve high sensitivity and specificity in serological tests, making it a valuable tool for accurate syphilis diagnosis .
Despite its usefulness, there are challenges associated with the use of recombinant p47 protein. One of the main issues is the potential for cross-reactivity with antibodies from other bacterial infections, which can lead to false-positive results. Researchers are continually working to improve the specificity and sensitivity of diagnostic tests by evaluating antigenic mixtures and optimizing assay conditions .
In conclusion, the recombinant p47 protein of Treponema pallidum is a vital tool in the study and diagnosis of syphilis. Its production and application in serological tests have significantly advanced our ability to detect and manage this infection. Ongoing research aims to further enhance the accuracy and reliability of these diagnostic methods.
