Mycobacterium tuberculosis MPT63

Mycobacterium tuberculosis MPT63 (Mycobacterial Protein Target 63) is a small secreted protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, characterized by its high conservation across Mycobacterial species. Its exact biological function is still under investigation, but preliminary studies suggest it may be involved in bacterial iron acquisition-a critical process for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as iron is scarce in the host. By facilitating iron uptake, MPT63 may support bacterial growth and survival during infection. MPT63 also exhibits immunogenicity, stimulating the host's immune system to produce specific antibodies and T-cell responses. This property makes it a potential diagnostic marker for tuberculosis, as MPT63-specific immune responses can be detected in infected individuals. Additionally, its conservation and potential role in virulence make it a candidate antigen for tuberculosis vaccines, with the goal of inhibiting bacterial iron metabolism and enhancing host clearance.