Learning from pathogenic microorganisms
Research report (imported) 2011 - Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology
Summary
Transport processes in human cells are essential for various cellular activities, e.g. the destruction of disease agents. Therefore, a class of switch proteins direct the temporal and spatial coordination of intracellular transportation. Some pathogens (e.g. the causative agent of Legionnaires’ disease) have contrived ways and means to manipulate these processes. The investigation of the molecular basis of such manipulations enables researchers to develop a deeper understanding of the biochemistry of diseases but also of the principles of intracellular transport processes.