Fusobacterium nucleatum outer membrane porin FomA (FomA)

Fusobacterium nucleatum outer membrane porin FomA is the primary major outer membrane protein (MOMP) of the Gram-negative anaerobe Fusobacterium nucleatum [1]. It functions as a non-specific porin, forming a 16-stranded beta-barrel structure that facilitates the passive diffusion of small hydrophilic solutes across the outer membrane [2]. Beyond its transport role, FomA acts as a critical adhesin, mediating the co-aggregation of F. nucleatum with other oral bacteria such as Streptococcus species, which is essential for dental plaque biofilm development [3]. In the context of disease, F. nucleatum is strongly associated with periodontitis and the progression of colorectal cancer, where FomA contributes to the bacterium's ability to colonize and persist in the host environment [4]. Research has identified FomA as a promising vaccine candidate due to its high expression and surface exposure, with studies demonstrating that immunization can elicit protective antibody responses [5]. Currently, there are no approved drugs specifically targeting FomA, but it remains a focal point for developing targeted antimicrobials and diagnostic tools for Fusobacterium-associated pathologies [6].

Other names

Major outer membrane protein FomAMOMPPorin FomAFusobacterium nucleatum FomA

None currently approved; experimental approaches focus on vaccine-induced antibody production to neutralize bacterial colonization or the use of inhibitors to disrupt adhesion and membrane permeability.