A versatile genetic toolbox for Prevotella copri enables studying polysaccharide utilization systems.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gut Microbiome Research
• Bacterial Genetics

Background:

• Prevotella copri is a common human gut bacterium linked to diet and health.
• Genetic manipulation of P. copri is challenging, hindering research into its functions.
• Understanding P. copri's metabolic capabilities is crucial for microbiome science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a versatile genetic toolbox for Prevotella copri.
• To investigate the function of polysaccharide utilization loci (PULs) in P. copri.
• To explore the link between specific P. copri gene clusters and dietary habits.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel genetic toolbox for P. copri enabling genetic insertion and allelic exchange.
• Systematic investigation of polysaccharide utilization loci (PULs) using the genetic platform.
• Functional analysis of arabinan utilization systems in P. copri.

Main Results:

• A versatile genetic toolbox for P. copri was successfully created.
• Four conserved PULs responsible for utilizing arabinan, pectic galactan, arabinoxylan, and inulin were identified.
• Two distinct arabinan-processing PULs (PUL^Ara) were discovered in P. copri, with type-II PUL^Ara being more prevalent in vegan diet consumers.

Conclusions:

• The developed genetic toolbox facilitates future functional genetic studies of P. copri.
• This research provides insights into the dietary adaptability of P. copri through specific polysaccharide utilization.
• The findings highlight a potential microbial marker associated with vegan diets.