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Updated: Apr 20, 2026
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TransFLP — A Method to Genetically Modify Vibrio cholerae Based on Natural Transformation and FLP-recombination
Published on: October 8, 2012
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Engineering Vibrio fischeri for Inducible Gene Expression
Jakob M Ondrey1, Karen L Visick1
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Health Sciences Division, Loyola University Chicago, 2160 S. First Avenue Building 105 Room 3936, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
The Open Microbiology Journal
|November 20, 2014
Summary
Researchers developed new genetic tools for Vibrio fischeri, enabling conditional gene control. This advances understanding of marine bacterium physiology and symbiotic host colonization.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Marine Biology
Background:
- Vibrio fischeri is a model organism for studying symbiotic host colonization.
- Genetic manipulation of V. fischeri facilitates the identification of factors involved in natural phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To adapt and develop genetic tools for conditional gene expression control in V. fischeri.
- To enable the identification and induction of genes controlling specific phenotypes in V. fischeri.
Main Methods:
- Modification of the mini-Tn5 transposon to include an outward-facing, LacI-repressible/IPTG-inducible promoter.
- Insertion of the lacI gene into the V. fischeri chromosome.
- Validation of the system by identifying IPTG-controllable motility mutants.
Main Results:
- Successfully adapted genetic tools for conditional gene expression in V. fischeri.
- Demonstrated the ability to control gene expression using an IPTG-inducible promoter.
- Identified specific motility mutants responsive to IPTG induction.
Conclusions:
- The developed genetic tools provide a method for conditional control of gene expression in V. fischeri.
- This approach will enhance the study of V. fischeri physiology and gene function.
- Random insertion of inducible promoters will advance research on this marine bacterium.
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