This family consists of a number of 29 residue repeats which seem to be specific to the Ehrlichia chaffeensis variable length PCR target (VLPT) protein. Ehrlichia chaffeensis is a tick-transmitted rickettsial agent and is responsible for human monocytic ehrlichiosis (HME). The function of this family is unknown [1].

1: Molecular heterogeneity of Ehrlichia chaffeensis isolates determined by sequence analysis of the 28-kilodalton outer membrane protein genes and other regions of the genome. Cheng C, Paddock CD, Reddy Ganta R; Infect Immun 2003;71:187-195. PMID:12496165