Prediction and systematic study of protein-protein interaction networks of Leptospira interrogans

Leptospira interrogans serovar Lai is a pathogenic bacterium that causes a spirochetal zoonosis in humans and some animals. With its complete genome sequence available, it is possible to analyze protein-protein interactions from a whole-genome standpoint. Here we combine four recently developed computational approaches (gene fusion method, gene neighbor method, phylogenetic profiles method, and operon method) to predict protein-protein interaction networks of Leptospira interrogans strain Lai. Through comprehensive analysis on interactions among proteins of motility and chemotaxis system, signal transduction, lipopolysaccaride biosynthesis and a series of proteins related to adhesion and invasion, we provided information for further studying on its pathogenic mechanism. In addition, we also assigned 203 previously uncharacterized proteins with possible functions based on the known functions of its interacting partners. This work is helpful for further investigating L. interrogans strain Lai.