Antigenic Variation

Question 1

Learning Objectives

Answer 1

1. describe/diagram the process of natural transformation in H. influenzae and Neisseria spp.
2. describe gene conversion and how it leads to antigenic variation
3. describe what is meant by phase variation and know the molecular mechanism (single-stranded mispairing) that drives it
4. understand how N. meningitidis uses Type IV pili to penetrate endothelium at the blood-CSF barrier