Amino acid mutations in the zinc binding domain of HypA in H. pylori protein affects acid viability

What is it about?

Created specific mutation to the zinc binding domain the HypA protein in Helicobacter pylori and tested the viability of the mutants in low pH conditions.

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Why is it important?

Helicobacter pylori currently infects about 30-50 percent of the human population. It survives in the acidic environment of the human stomach. To combat the harsh conditions of the stomach, H. pylori produces urease which neutralizes the pH of the microbe's immediate surroundings. HypA is critical for proper maturation of the urease protein. Therefore, this study helps elucidate the mechanisms of urease maturation in H. pylori.