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[Effect of polymyxins on Bacillus polymyxa sporogenesis]
Abstract:
Bacillus polymyxa var. Ross. producing polymyxin M and Bacillus polymyxa 153 producing polymyxin B form spores during submerged cultivation when the rate of biosynthesis of antibiotic peptides is low and when the production of antibiotics is over. However, sporogenesis is stimulated if polymyxins are added at the early stage of cultural growth. Inhibition of the synthesis of antibiotics suppresses the formation of spores. Substances other than polymyxins do not exhibit such a specific effect on sporogenesis. The fact that the culture requires endogenous polymyxins which are most effective in the period prior to the appearance of spores in the culture suggests the regulatory action of these peptides at the stage between vegetative growth and spore formation in Bacillus polymyxa.
Insights
Polymyxins regulate Bacillus polymyxa sporogenesis. Adding polymyxins early stimulates spore formation, while inhibiting their synthesis suppresses it, indicating a key regulatory role.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Bacillus polymyxa produces polymyxin M and B antibiotics.
- Spore formation in Bacillus polymyxa is linked to antibiotic biosynthesis stages.
- The precise regulatory mechanisms of sporogenesis remain under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of polymyxins in Bacillus polymyxa sporogenesis.
- To determine if polymyxins act as regulators of spore formation.
Main Methods:
- Submerged cultivation of Bacillus polymyxa strains.
- Monitoring of antibiotic peptide biosynthesis and spore formation.
- Experimental addition and inhibition of polymyxin synthesis.
Main Results:
- Sporogenesis occurs during low antibiotic biosynthesis and after production cessation.
- Early addition of polymyxins significantly stimulates sporogenesis.
- Inhibition of antibiotic synthesis suppresses spore formation.
- Polymyxins exhibit a specific regulatory effect not seen with other substances.
Conclusions:
- Polymyxins act as endogenous regulators of Bacillus polymyxa sporogenesis.
- These peptides are crucial for the transition from vegetative growth to spore formation.