The Potential for Inteins as Antimicrobial Targets

Maddie Blanford

Abstract/Description

Intervening polypeptides, also known as inteins, are a genetic component in proteins essential for survival in many bacteria, viruses, archaea, and single-celled eukaryotes. Inteins catalyze their own removal from the polypeptide chain which then allows for proper functioning of the protein. By inhibiting this removal we can disrupt function in the protein, thereby disrupting function of the host organism.

 

The Potential for Inteins as Antimicrobial Targets

Intervening polypeptides, also known as inteins, are a genetic component in proteins essential for survival in many bacteria, viruses, archaea, and single-celled eukaryotes. Inteins catalyze their own removal from the polypeptide chain which then allows for proper functioning of the protein. By inhibiting this removal we can disrupt function in the protein, thereby disrupting function of the host organism.