Characterization of metabolism in mycobacteria, which affects the intracellular survival

2016 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 25871158
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Bacteriology (including mycology); Infectious disease medicine
• Research Institution: National Institute of Infectious Diseases
• Principal Investigator: Miyamoto Yuji 国立感染症研究所, ハンセン病研究センター 感染制御部, 主任研究官 (40392328)
• Project Period (FY): 2013-04-01 – 2017-03-31
• Keywords: 抗酸菌 / 代謝

Outline of Final Research Achievements

It is known that the metabolism in mycobacteria critically plays a role in maintaining the intracellular survival in host, while its details remain unclear. In this study, for understanding the mechanism of mycobacterial metabolism, multifaceted experimental approaches have been carried out. Evaluation of metabolic activity demonstrated that M. leprae has unique nitrogen metabolism which is different from other mycobacteria. Additionally, comprehensive investigation focusing on metabolites and genetic marker showed that the fate of mycobacterial metabolites has distinctive feature and a part of the RNA molecules could be a promising indicator of metabolic activity. These results would shed light on undefined mechanism of metabolism in mycobacteria.

Free Research Field

細菌学