Mycobacterium tuberculosis GlcB

Mycobacterium tuberculosis GlcB (Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase-like Protein, also known as Gap) is a metabolic enzyme and antigenic protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Primarily, it functions in the bacterial glycolytic pathway, catalyzing the conversion of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate to 1,3-bisphosphoglycerate-an essential step for energy production and nutrient metabolism, supporting bacterial survival in nutrient-limited host environments (e.g., within macrophages). Beyond its metabolic role, GlcB exhibits immunogenicity, triggering both humoral and cellular immune responses in the host. It is a potential diagnostic marker for tuberculosis, as the presence of GlcB-specific antibodies or T-cell responses can indicate infection. Additionally, its conservation across Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains and role in critical metabolism make it a candidate for anti-tuberculosis drugs, as inhibiting GlcB may disrupt bacterial energy production and limit pathogenicity.