Mobilizable Rolling-Circle Replicating Plasmids from Gram-Positive Bacteria: A Low-Cost Conjugative Transfer

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in bacteria is crucial for adaptation and evolution.
• Conjugation is a primary HGT mechanism, involving both self-transmissible and mobilizable plasmids.
• Mobilizable plasmids, though less efficient, are more prevalent in natural environments, highlighting the importance of their replication and mobilization mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review information on small mobilizable plasmids from Gram-positive bacteria that utilize the rolling-circle replication mechanism.
• To explore the pMV158 plasmid as a model system, focusing on its MOBV mobilization module and replication strategy.
• To discuss methods for assessing and inhibiting plasmid transfer, and to review biotechnological applications of these plasmids.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on rolling-circle replicating mobilizable plasmids in Gram-positive bacteria.
• Analysis of the pMV158 plasmid's replication and mobilization mechanisms, particularly its origins of lagging strand synthesis.
• Compilation of current strategies for evaluating plasmid transfer efficiency and developing conjugation inhibitors.

Main Results:

• Mobilizable plasmids are widespread due to efficient replication and mobilization strategies.
• The pMV158 plasmid's promiscuity is linked to two origins of lagging strand synthesis, facilitating its replication.
• The MOBV mobilization module is a common feature among many mobilizable plasmids.

Conclusions:

• Replication and mobilization are key drivers of plasmid promiscuity and natural abundance.
• The pMV158 model provides insights into the molecular basis of mobilizable plasmid success.
• Understanding these plasmids opens avenues for biotechnological applications and control strategies for bacterial conjugation.