In-silico prediction of dual function of DksA like hypothetical protein in V. cholerae O395 genome

Cholera, an acute infection of the small intestine, is caused by Vibrio cholerae. The present study identified a hypothetical protein in V. cholerae O395, which was predicted to be acquired through horizontal gene transfer the origin of which was found to be from a phage. Its expression was further confirmed by RT-PCR. Homology based 3D model of the hypothetical protein indicated DksA like homologue. Protein binding site of 3D-model revealed a deep cleft which may influence the dimer formation and interaction with ds-DNA molecule. Also, canonical function of direct interaction with RNA polymerase (RNAP) holoenzyme in complex with ppGpp suggests its dual role in the pathogenesis of cholera.