Type IV secretion system in Helicobacter pylori: a new insight into pathogenicity.
OBJECTIVE
To review the research progress on Type IV secretion system (T4SS) in Helicobacter pylori.


METHODS
The data used in this review were identified by searching of PUBMED (1995 - 2007) online resources using the key terms 'Type IV secretion system' and 'Helicobacter pylori'.


METHODS
Mainly original articles and critical reviews written by major pioneer investigators of this field were selected.


RESULTS
The research progress on T4SS in Helicobacter pylori was summarized. The structure and function was discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
T4SS is not only involved in toxin secretion and injection of virulence factors into eukaryotic host target cells, but also involved in horizontal DNA transfer to other bacteria and eukaryotic cells, through DNA uptake from or release into the extracellular milieu. It provides a new insight into the pathogenicity of Helicobacter pylori and a novel target for antimicrobials development. However, many challenges remain for us in understanding the biological role of T4SS in Helicobacter pylori.
Zhong
Qiao
Q
Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
Shao
Shi-he
SH
Cui
Lei-lei
LL
Mu
Run-hong
RH
Ju
Xiao-li
XL
Dong
Su-rong
SR
D001426:Bacterial Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D004268:DNA-Binding Proteins; D022761:Gene Transfer, Horizontal; D016480:Helicobacter pylori / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D005810:Multigene Family
D001426:Bacterial Proteins; D004268:DNA-Binding Proteins; C061261:comB protein, Haemophilus influenzae