The 120 kDa surface-exposed protein is a major structural protein which may play a role as a rickettsial virulence factor and/or immunogen during infection. The 32 kDa beta peptide may serve as a membrane anchor. It has been shown to adhere to biotinylated Vero cell proteins. Surface exposed. This bacterium is covered by a S-layer with hexagonal symmetry. The cleaved C-terminal fragment (autotransporter domain) is localized in the outer membrane. Belongs to the rickettsiae OmpA/OmpB family.