We are studying regulatory mechanisms put in play by two proteins, NikR and Fur, involved in the control mechanisms allowing
Helicobacter pylori to regulate its levels of iron and nickel, two essential ions for the survival of that carcinogenic bacterium in the stomach. Having identified a new NikR activation mechanism, we identified new target genes for these two metalloregulators. Finally, we determine the first crystal structure of the
H. pylori Fur protein, revealing a unique set of three metal sites.