DprA

DprA, or DNA processing protein A, is a bacterial protein that plays a central role in natural genetic competence and transformation. It is found in a variety of bacteria, including many Gram-positive species and some Gram-negative organisms, and is associated with the uptake and processing of transforming DNA.

In the process of competence, DprA binds to incoming single-stranded DNA delivered by the DNA uptake machinery. By forming a DprA–DNA complex, it protects the ssDNA from nucleases and helps channel the DNA toward the recombination apparatus. A key function of DprA is to promote or facilitate the loading of RecA onto the transforming DNA, enabling the formation of RecA nucleoprotein filaments necessary for homologous recombination. In some species, DprA may interact with other single-stranded DNA binding proteins, such as SsbA or SsbB, to coordinate the protection and handoff of transforming DNA.

Expression of dprA is typically induced during the competence state, regulated by species-specific competence regulons. Its activity is coordinated with other components of the transformasome to ensure efficient uptake, protection, and integration of exogenous DNA.

DprA proteins are generally soluble cytosolic factors and can form oligomers. They are part of the broader set of proteins involved in horizontal gene transfer, contributing to genetic diversity and the spread of traits such as antibiotic resistance among bacterial populations. The gene is often located within competence gene clusters and exhibits modest sequence conservation across diverse taxa.

See also: Natural competence, RecA, Ssb proteins.