Transformation and mobilization of cloning vectors in Acinetobacter spp

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Acinetobacter species are important in various environments.
• Efficient genetic manipulation is crucial for studying Acinetobacter.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an improved method for the transformation of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus BD413.
• To evaluate plasmid introduction via transformation and conjugal mobilization.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of R300B-, RSF1010-, and RK2-derived plasmids into Acinetobacter sp. strain HO1-N and Acinetobacter calcoaceticus BD413.
• Utilizing transformation and conjugal mobilization for plasmid delivery.
• Quantifying transformation and conjugation frequencies.

Main Results:

• Transformation frequencies in Acinetobacter calcoaceticus BD413 ranged from 4.2 x 10^6 to 6.3 x 10^6 transformants per microgram of DNA per 10^9 recipient cells.
• Conjugal mobilization frequencies ranged from 1.1 x 10^-1 to 8.5 x 10^-1 per recipient.
• Demonstrated successful plasmid introduction into two Acinetobacter strains.

Conclusions:

• An improved and efficient method for Acinetobacter calcoaceticus BD413 transformation has been established.
• Transformation and conjugal mobilization are effective for introducing plasmids into Acinetobacter species.
• This advancement facilitates further genetic studies of Acinetobacter.