DNA-binding protein HU (Neisseria) (HU)

The Neisseria HU protein is a small, basic, dimeric nucleoid-associated protein (NAP) that plays a critical role in organizing the bacterial chromosome and regulating gene expression in pathogens such as Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (UniProt, P0A106). Unlike many other bacteria that possess two subunits (HU-alpha and HU-beta), Neisseria species typically encode a single HU protein (often termed Hbb) that functions as a homodimer to induce sharp bends in DNA, facilitating the formation of higher-order nucleoprotein complexes (PubMed, 11544219). This protein is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the nucleoid and is involved in various DNA-dependent processes, including replication, recombination, and repair (PubMed, 25344244). Because HU proteins are highly conserved among bacteria but lack direct structural homologs in eukaryotes, they are considered attractive targets for the development of novel antimicrobial agents (PubMed, 26976343). Small molecule inhibitors, such as certain stilbene derivatives, have been shown to bind the HU protein and disrupt its ability to bend DNA, effectively inhibiting bacterial growth and reducing virulence (PubMed, 24019519). Targeting the Neisseria HU protein offers a potential strategy to combat multi-drug resistant strains of gonorrhea and life-threatening meningococcal meningitis.

Other names

Histone-like protein HUNucleoid-associated protein HUHbbDNA-binding protein HU-betaHB protein

Inhibition of DNA binding and bending activities, leading to the disruption of nucleoid architecture and global transcriptional dysregulation.