Phase variation of DNA methyltransferases and the regulation of virulence and immune evasion in the pathogenic Neisseria

Abstract

The pathogenic Neisseria provide textbook examples of phase variation: the high frequency, random and reversible switching of gene expression. Typically, phase variable gene expression is observed in genes required for the expression of surface proteins and carbohydrate structures. All Neisseria gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis strains also express phase variable DNA methyltransferases that are components of DNA restriction-modification systems. Phase variation of these DNA methyltransferases (Mod) alters global DNA methylation patterns. The change in DNA methylation due to phase variation events alters expression of a regulon of genes, called a phasevarion, and results in differentiation of ..