Yersinia outer membrane proteins coded for by the virulence plasmid

This review is devoted to problems of regulation of the synthesis of the main virulence determinants encoded by a virulence plasmid of Yersinia pathogenic for humans. The principal attention is paid to differences in the mechanisms inducing the synthesis of Yersinia outer membrane proteins (Yop) in vitro and in vivo. A model of regulation of Yop expression and synthesis is offered. Modern data on the role of these proteins in virulence is discussed.