FliC (flagellin protein)

FliC, also known as flagellin, is a protein that makes up the filament core of bacterial flagella—whip-like structures that enable bacteria to move. FliC forms long, helical chains that assemble into the flagellum, acting as a propeller to propel the bacteria through liquids. Besides their role in mobility, flagellins are recognized by the immune system as signals of bacterial presence, triggering immune responses. The structure of FliC is highly conserved, meaning it’s similar across many bacterial species, and plays a crucial role in bacterial motility and interaction with host organisms.