Elastase is a protein that is secreted by the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa that is responsible for tissue damage and infection by the pathogen in the human host. Elastase has been implicated in activation of the EGFR signaling pathway and there is an interest in understanding its involvement and mechanism of EGFR activation. The results presented here are for the encapsulation and characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa elastase enzyme in the P22 virus-like particle (VLP). By encapsulating the elastase enzyme inside the VLP biocontainer, preventing direct contact of the enzyme with the cell surface, but allowing free exchange of soluble substrates into the VLP through 2 nm pores in the protein wall, we seek to examine the mechanism for the activation of the EGFR pathway. In addition, the elastase-VLP holds potential for the development of a vaccine providing protection against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Encapsulation of elastase inside the P22 virus-like particle

255th National Meeting (2018)

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