| In the proposed project we intend to determine the function of the secreted proteins of N. meningitidis in colonization and infection and to evaluate their vaccine potential. Specifically, we intend to (i) identify the secretome of N. meningitidis and determine whether there are differences between the secretomes of isolates from carriers and from patients, (ii) establish whether these secreted proteins are expressed in vivo, (iii) elucidate the function of the secreted proteins and identify their host-cell targets, (iv) determine the occurrence and the relevance of gene conversion in the host-target specificity of secreted proteins, (v) determine whether the secreted proteins play an essential role in colonization and infection, and (vi) determine whether secretome-specific antibodies are bactericidal or block the function of these proteins. |
