[Cloning of Shigella flexneri 2a genes coding for restriction- modification system Sfl2aI]

The Sfl2aI system of restriction-modification (RM) was revealed in the cells of Shigella flexneri encoded by pKMR114 plasmid belonging to the IncN incompatibility group. The genes for Sfl2aI RM system were cloned. The system was ascribed to the enzymes of the EcoRII specificity, as shown by in vivo and in vitro experiments. Restriction analysis of these genes' region and antigenic properties of the Sfl2aI endonuclease pointed to significant differences between this and EcoRII RM systems.