Aliarcobacter butzleri is an emerging foodborne and zoonotic pathogen, yet many of its encoded proteins remain functionally uncharacterized. This lack of annotation limits understanding of its molecular mechanisms and hampers the identification of novel therapeutic targets. In this study, we systematically performed functional annotation of essential hypothetical proteins from the BNI-3166 strain using an integrative-in-silico approach to uncover potential drug and vaccine candidates. 2,367 protein-coding sequences were retrieved from the RefSeq database and were identified 356 as hypothetical proteins. Using BLASTp, we screened these HPs against the Database of Essential Genes and the human proteome to identify essential non-homologous proteins, resulting in 20 ENH candidates. Functional annotation was performed using several domain-based databases, including Pfam, InterPro, SMART, and SUPERFAMILY. Subsequently, physicochemical properties were analyzed and predicted subcellular localization using PSORTb and CELLO. To assess druggability, the ChEMBL database was used. Virulence factors using VFDB, VICMpred, and VirulentPred 2.0 were also predicted. Gene Ontology annotations were generated via ARGOT2.5. Furthermore, we explored protein-protein interactions using STRING and predicted tertiary structures with AlphaFold3. Moreover, Ligand binding pockets were predicted using PrankWeb, and antigenicity of vaccine candidates was assessed using VaxiJen v2.0. We identified 20 essential non-homologous hypothetical proteins, of which 10 were confidently annotated based on conserved domain analysis. These proteins were classified as enzymes, binding proteins, transporters, regulatory proteins, and potential virulence factors. Among them, eight exhibited characteristics of promising drug targets, while two showed potential as vaccine candidates based on subcellular localization. Druggability analysis revealed that nine proteins had no similarity to known drug targets, suggesting novel therapeutic potential. Predicted 3D structures generated using AlphaFold3 yielded pTM scores ranging from 0.44 to 0.92, indicating acceptable to high modeling confidence. Ligand binding site analysis confirmed druggability in six candidates, and antigenicity screening identified one protein as a potential vaccine target. This study provides a computational framework for identifying functionally important proteins in A. butzleri BNI-3166 and highlights novel therapeutic candidates for experimental validation, offering new directions in drug and vaccine development against this underexplored pathogen.
Key words: Aliarcobacter butzleri, Drug Target Identification, Functional Annotation, Hypothetical Proteins, In Silico Analysis
Received: 08.07.2025; Accepted: 01.09.2025; Early view: 24.09.2025 Published: 10.01.2026
DOI: 10.62063/ecb-66
Citation: Paul, S., Barua, S., & Barua, J.D. (2026). In-silico functional annotation and structural characterization of hypothetical proteins from Aliarcobacter butzleri BNI-3166: Insights into novel virulence and drug targets. The European chemistry and biotechnology journal, 5, 22-39. https://doi.org/10.62063/ecb-66
The copyrights of the studies published in The European Chemistry and Biotechnology Journal (EUCHEMBIOJ) belong to their authors
This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)(https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/).
Thus, for a true , you want Aspire 1.5, not the outdated 1.15.
Unlike restricted versions, Aspire allows for designing at any size.
: Version 11.5 introduced improved 3D assembly tools, making it easier to arrange and manipulate 3D clipart for complex layouts like bar signs.
The Vectric Aspire 115 Full Top is a powerful and precise CNC machining center designed to meet the demands of various industries. With its spacious working area, high-speed spindle, and advanced control system, this machine is perfect for producing high-quality parts with ease. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, the Aspire 115 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to take their machining capabilities to the next level.
: A "show full model" option allows you to see how your sculpting affects the entire project live, rather than just viewing the selected component.
If you are installing for the first time or upgrading, follow these core steps: Installation & Licensing
Version 11.5 introduced a completely rebuilt 3D rendering engine.
Rotary Machining: For those with a 4th axis, Aspire 11.5 provides robust support for rotary wrapping. You can visualize your design wrapped around a cylinder, making it the premier choice for creating custom table legs, baseball bats, or ornamental columns. Toolpath Optimization and Simulation
Get the experience legally, safely, and with full support. Your CNC deserves it.
Since there is no version 115, I have interpreted your request as a guide for .
Mimics a physical pencil to create quick sketches or trace organic shapes with stabilization settings to smooth out cursor movements.
Vectric Aspire builds upon the foundational vector and toolpath framework of VCarve Pro , adding comprehensive 3D component manipulation directly into the software. Aspire 〡Vectric
Thus, for a true , you want Aspire 1.5, not the outdated 1.15.
Unlike restricted versions, Aspire allows for designing at any size.
: Version 11.5 introduced improved 3D assembly tools, making it easier to arrange and manipulate 3D clipart for complex layouts like bar signs.
The Vectric Aspire 115 Full Top is a powerful and precise CNC machining center designed to meet the demands of various industries. With its spacious working area, high-speed spindle, and advanced control system, this machine is perfect for producing high-quality parts with ease. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, the Aspire 115 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to take their machining capabilities to the next level.
: A "show full model" option allows you to see how your sculpting affects the entire project live, rather than just viewing the selected component.
If you are installing for the first time or upgrading, follow these core steps: Installation & Licensing
Version 11.5 introduced a completely rebuilt 3D rendering engine.
Rotary Machining: For those with a 4th axis, Aspire 11.5 provides robust support for rotary wrapping. You can visualize your design wrapped around a cylinder, making it the premier choice for creating custom table legs, baseball bats, or ornamental columns. Toolpath Optimization and Simulation
Get the experience legally, safely, and with full support. Your CNC deserves it.
Since there is no version 115, I have interpreted your request as a guide for .
Mimics a physical pencil to create quick sketches or trace organic shapes with stabilization settings to smooth out cursor movements.
Vectric Aspire builds upon the foundational vector and toolpath framework of VCarve Pro , adding comprehensive 3D component manipulation directly into the software. Aspire 〡Vectric