pore-forming module (PFM) of uncharacterized proteins having tachylectin domain(s), and similar aerolysin-type beta-barrel pore-forming proteins
Many proteins belonging to this group have tachylectin domain(s), N-terminal to this PFM; some also have an immunoglobulin (Ig) domain. Tachylectins are lectins which bind N-acetylglucosamine and N-acetylgalactosamine. Members of this group belong to the aerolysin family of beta-pore-forming proteins (beta-PFPs). PFPs are generally secreted as water-soluble monomers, which upon binding to target lipid membranes, oligomerize and form transmembrane pores harmful to cells. Beta-PFPs form pores by transmembrane beta-barrels. Aerolysin-type beta-PFPs are believed to use an amphipathic beta-hairpin to form the beta-barrel, are found in all kingdoms of life and many are bacterial toxins. In addition to having a role in microbial infection, they have potential as biotechnological sensors and delivery systems. They share a similar monomeric architecture, with a variable membrane-binding domain and a structurally conserved pore-forming region. A significant portion of the monomeric subunit structure is re-organized to form the pore. Oligomers formed by members of the aerolysin family include: hepta- (aerolysin), octa- (Dln1), and nonameric oligomers (lysenin and monalysin).
Jiyao W et al.(2023). "The conserved domain database in 2023.",