PGBA_N is an N-terminal family of bacterial proteins that bind plasminogen. This activity was identified in In Helicobacter pylori where it is thought to contribute to the virulence of this bacterium. Both PgbA and PgbB are surface-exposed proteins that mediate binding to plasminogen such that it can be converted into plasmin in the presence of a Pg activator.

1: Molecular cloning and characterization of two Helicobacter pylori genes coding for plasminogen-binding proteins. Jonsson K, Guo BP, Monstein HJ, Mekalanos JJ, Kronvall G; Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2004;101:1852-1857. PMID:14769936