Journal Article

PUBDB-2026-01374

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Molecular insights into the capsular polysaccharide transporter Wza-Wzc complex

Yuan, B. (Corresponding author)Extern* ; Sieben, C. ; Raj, P. ; Rietschel, T. ; Hennell James, R.Extern*CSSB*EMBL* ; Gatzemeier, A. ; Jänsch, L. ; Marlovits, T.CSSB* ; Heinz, D. W. (Corresponding author)

2026
Springer Nature [London]

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Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.1038/s41467-026-69136-2  doi:10.3204/PUBDB-2026-01374

Abstract: Capsular polysaccharides (CPS) are key virulence determinants, constituting the protective capsule that surrounds bacterial pathogens. Here, we present the complete cryo-EM structure of Gram-negative bacterial CPS secretion machinery formed by the E. coli K12 Wza-Wzc complex. The structure reveals an elongated, continuous channel spanning the entire envelope that facilitates CPS secretion. Multiple structural snapshots of the ADP-bound Wza-Wzc complex capture intermediate conformations of the double membrane assembly, highlighting its remarkable intrinsic dynamics. In-depth analysis of the isolated Wza translocon and Wzc co-polymerase, reveals mechanistic details of both complex formation and CPS transport. We further uncover the jellyroll domain of Wzc as a CPS-binding module, likely guiding CPS repeat units into a proposed Wzc-Wzy polymerization platform. Collectively, this work provides structural and functional insights into CPS synthesis and transport, advancing our understanding of bacterial capsule formation and virulence mechanisms.

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. CSSB-UKE-TM (CSSB-UKE-TM)

Research Program(s):

1. 633 - Life Sciences – Building Blocks of Life: Structure and Function (POF4-633) (POF4-633)

Experiment(s):

1. No specific instrument

Appears in the scientific report 2026

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