Exo-alpha-sialidase (NanI) (NanI)

Exo-alpha-sialidase (NanI) is a major extracellular enzyme produced by the bacterium Clostridium perfringens, particularly by strains associated with chronic gastrointestinal diseases. The enzyme functions by cleaving terminal sialic acid residues from host cell surface glycoconjugates and mucus, which serves as a critical virulence mechanism. By releasing free sialic acid, NanI provides a nutrient source that supports bacterial growth and colonization within the competitive environment of the gut. Furthermore, the removal of sialic acids modifies the host cell surface, unmasking or facilitating the binding of potent toxins such as epsilon toxin (Etx) and Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE), thereby significantly enhancing their cytotoxic effects. Because of its multifaceted role in promoting bacterial fitness and toxin-mediated damage, NanI is considered a promising therapeutic target for anti-virulence strategies aimed at treating clostridial infections.

Other names

NanI sialidaseExo-alpha-sialidaseN-acetylneuraminate glycohydrolaseNeuraminidaseSialidase IClostridium perfringens sialidase