Molecular Characterization of host-specific and –unspecific properties of IdeC, the IgG-specific protease of Streptococcus canis

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Similar to Streptococcus (S.) canis, a facultative pathogen generally found associated with dogs and cats, many of the more than 50 different Streptococcus species show remarkable host specificities. To date, little is known about the molecular bases behind the host-specificities, although immunoglobulin (Ig)-specific proteases of the IdeS/Mac family appear to play an important role. This project will concentrate on IdeC, the IgG-specific protease of S. canis. Using molecular biological and protein biochemistry methods, we will determine the mechanism of the host-specificity of IdeC for canine and feline IgG, and using rational protein design, determine how the host-specificity can be altered and/or extended. In addition, many of the IdeS/Mac family proteases harbor an RGD motif in the protein sequence. As RGD motifs are implicated in general, species-independent recognition of host cell integrins, we will also determine the role for IdeC as an adhesin or invasin of host cells using molecular and cell biology methods.