Cysteine protease-like VirA

UniProtKB accession:  Q7BU69

Grouped By:  Matching UniProtKB accession

UniProtKB description:  Alpha-tubulin-specific protease that is required for entry into epithelial cells and for subsequent intra- and intercellular spreading. Contributes to bacterial entry into epithelial cells by inducing microtubule (MT) destabilization and the formation of membrane ruffles. The membrane ruffling evoked by VirA results from the activation of host rac1, which is associated with the destruction of MT networks. Creates a tunnel inside the host cell cytoplasm by breaking down the microtubule infrastructure. This facilitates the bacterium's movement through the cytoplasm and also helps other bacteria move faster during the invasion of the eukaryotic cell. Is absolutely required for virulence.