Phage Proteases Trigger a Conserved Bacterial Antiviral Defense Pathway
Researchers have uncovered how phage proteases activate CBASS antiphage immunity, revealing a novel bacterial virus-sensing mechanism that could inform development of more effective phage therapies. The post Phage Proteases Trigger a Conserved Bacterial Antiviral Defense Pathway appeared first on GEN - Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News .
Phage proteases have been found to trigger a conserved bacterial antiviral defense pathway, according to new research published in Science. This discovery could lead to the development of improved phage therapies capable of evading bacterial immune systems. The mechanism involves the cyclic oligonucleotide-based antiphage signaling systems (CBASS), which activate a "last resort" immune response in bacteria to kill viruses before they can spread.
Researchers discovered that phage prohead protease activity directly interacts with host proteins, serving as a signal to activate the signaling pathway. This new mechanism differs from others activated by the presence of viral genetic material. Understanding CBASS may also provide insights into the human immune system, as it shares similarities with a related pathway in humans and has persisted through millions of years of evolution.
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