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Microcin C51 plasmid genes: possible source of horizontal gene transfer
Dmitri E Fomenko1, Anastazia Z Metlitskaya, Jean Péduzzi
1Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy
|August 26, 2003
Summary
Researchers characterized the Microcin C51 (MccC51) gene cluster in Escherichia coli, identifying genes for production and immunity. This antimicrobial peptide
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Microcin C51 (MccC51) is an antimicrobial peptide produced by Escherichia coli.
- The genetic basis for MccC51 production, secretion, and self-immunity was previously uncharacterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To sequence and characterize the MccC51 gene cluster.
- To elucidate the functional roles of individual genes in MccC51 biosynthesis and immunity.
- To investigate the potential for horizontal gene transfer of the MccC51 operon.
Main Methods:
- Plasmid DNA sequencing of a 5.7-kb fragment from pC51.
- Construction of recombinant plasmids with varying combinations of mcc genes.
- Functional analysis of gene products through MccC51 production and immunity assays.
- Amino acid sequence comparisons for functional predictions.
Main Results:
- The MccC51 gene cluster (mccA-mccE) was sequenced and found similar to the MccC7 gene cluster.
- Genes mccA, mccB, mccD, and mccE are essential for MccC51 production.
- Genes mccC and mccE confer immunity to MccC51.
- A related substance, MccC51p, was synthesized lacking mccD, showing weak activity and toxicity.
- Immunity genes did not protect against MccC51p toxicity.
Conclusions:
- The study identified specific genes responsible for MccC51 production and self-immunity in E. coli.
- The MccC51 operon's unique G+C content and flanking repeats suggest horizontal gene transfer.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the biosynthesis pathway and regulation of MccC51.