| abstract |
We have isolated and characterized a novel protein of pathogenic forms of Neisseria. We have also isolated and characterized genes which encode PilC, i.e., the pilC loci. Portions of the DNA sequences of the pilC genes are useful as probes to diagnose the presence of the relevant microorganisms containing type 4 pilin, for example, Neisseria in samples. These DNAs also make available polypeptide sequences of immunoreactive epitopes encoded within the loci, thus permitting the production of polypeptides which are useful as standards or reagents in diagnostic tests and/or as components of vaccines. Antibodies, both monoclonal and purified polyclonal, directed against PilC epitopes are also useful for diagnostic test and as therapeutic agents for passive immunization. In addition, by utilizing probes derived from the DNA sequences, it is possible to isolate and sequence other portions of the pilC loci from species and strains of interest. |