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Type VI secretion system effectors: poisons with a purpose

Alistair B Russell1, S Brook Peterson1, Joseph D Mougous1

  • 1Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA.

Nature Reviews. Microbiology
|January 4, 2014
PubMed

Insights

The type VI secretion system (T6SS) is vital for Gram-negative bacteria interactions. This review explores T6SS

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Bacterial Pathogenesis
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The type VI secretion system (T6SS) is a protein complex used by Gram-negative bacteria for intercellular communication and combat.
  • Recent research has expanded the known repertoire of T6SS effector proteins, offering deeper insights into its adaptive significance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and synthesize current knowledge on the diverse roles of the T6SS in bacterial communities.
  • To highlight the T6SS's involvement in both antagonistic and non-antagonistic interactions.
  • To underscore the importance of understanding T6SS functions for microbial ecology and biotechnology.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on T6SS.
  • Analysis of characterized T6SS effector proteins.
  • Synthesis of findings on T6SS roles in microbial interactions.

Main Results:

  • The T6SS mediates interactions across many Gram-negative bacterial species.
  • T6SS effectors play roles in both competitive (antagonistic) and cooperative (non-antagonistic) behaviors.
  • A nuanced understanding of T6SS functions is emerging.

Conclusions:

  • The T6SS is a versatile system with multifaceted roles in microbial communities.
  • Understanding T6SS functions is crucial for human and environmental health.
  • Targeting T6SS could offer therapeutic and environmental benefits.

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