Coxiella burnetii protein CBU2016 supports CCV expansion

Abstract

Coxiella burnetii is a globally distributed obligate intracellular pathogen. Although often asymptomatic, infections can cause acute Q fever with influenza-like symptoms and/or severe chronic Q fever. Coxiella burnetii develops a unique replicative niche within host cells called the Coxiella-containing vacuole (CCV), facilitated by the Dot/Icm type IV secretion system translocating a cohort of bacterial effector proteins into the host. The role of some effectors has been elucidated; however, the actions of the majority remain enigmatic and the list of true effectors is disputable. This study examined CBU2016, a unique C. burnetii protein previously designated as an effector with a role in in..