[Research advances in actinomycete ATP-binding cassette transporters--a review]

Actinomycetes can produce numerous secondary metabolites with novel structures and unique bioactivities, which are significant for pharmaceutical industry, agriculture and environmental protection. Whole-genome sequencing data demonstrate that actinomycetes contain plenty genes coding for transporters with ATP-binding cassette (ABC), which play important roles in nutrient uptake, secondary metabolite export, xenogenous toxin detoxification, and so on. In this review, the structures and mechanisms of the ABC transporters were described. We also comprehensively discussed research advances including ours on actinomycete ABC transporters, with emphasis on ABC exporters responsible for the secretion of secondary metabolites. Finally, research hotspots and application prospect of actinomycete ABC transporters were also addressed.