In vitro DNA Inversions Mediated by the PsrA Site-Specific Tyrosine Recombinase of Streptococcus pneumoniae

What is it about?

Changes in the chromosome of bacteria are achieved by intrachromosomal recombinations. In the case of the pathogenic bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus), this is achieved by a protein termed PsrA. The activity of the protein leads to changes that are important in the case of bacterial infections.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

Pneumococcal infections are a serious threat to infants below 5 and elder people: nearly 1.5 millions are killed annually by this bacterium.