Trimethylamine N-oxide-binding protein (TmoX)

TmoX is a periplasmic substrate-binding protein that constitutes part of the TmoXWV ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter system found in various marine and gut bacteria, such as Ruegeria pomeroyi and members of the SAR11 clade. Its primary biological function is the high-affinity binding and transport of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) into the bacterial cell, where it can be utilized as a nitrogen or energy source. In the context of human health, TmoX is significant due to its role in the metaorganismal pathway of TMAO, a metabolite strongly linked to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. While TmoX itself is a bacterial protein rather than a human one, it is considered a potential target for microbiome-modulating therapies aimed at reducing systemic TMAO levels. By inhibiting the transport or production of TMAO precursors in the gut, researchers hope to mitigate the risk of thrombotic events and chronic inflammatory conditions associated with elevated circulating TMAO.

Other names

TMAO-binding proteinTmoX periplasmic proteinTmoXWV transporter component

Inhibition of bacterial TMAO uptake or metabolism to reduce systemic levels of pro-atherogenic metabolites.