Study Examines Benefit of New X-ray in Understanding Pathogen

Tularemia is a rare disease caused by bacterium Francisella tularensis. The microbe is transported by a number of animals and insects and can enter the body through several pathways.

A new study examined a key membrane protein that causes the bacterium Francisella tularensis ability to infect the body and cause illness.

Using an x-ray free electron laser (XFEL), this virulence factor (Flpp3) can be examined in detail and researchers have been able to develop a more complete model of Flpp3.

Read the full press release here.