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Introduction of bacteriophage Mu into bacteria of various genera and intergeneric gene transfer by RP4::Mu

Y Murooka, N Takizawa, T Harada

    Journal of Bacteriology
    |January 1, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    Researchers expanded the host range of coliphage Mu to diverse gram-negative bacteria using the RP4::Mu cts plasmid. This enables intergeneric gene transfer and genetic analysis in new bacterial hosts.

    Area of Science:

    • Microbiology
    • Bacteriology
    • Virology

    Background:

    • Coliphage Mu is a bacteriophage with a limited host range.
    • Genetic manipulation of diverse bacterial genera is crucial for biological research.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To expand the host range of coliphage Mu to various gram-negative bacteria.
    • To establish methods for intergeneric gene transfer and genetic analysis in new hosts.

    Main Methods:

    • Utilized the hybrid plasmid RP4::Mu cts, which confers antibiotic resistance (ampicillin, kanamycin, tetracycline).
    • Transferred drug resistance genes from Escherichia coli to multiple bacterial genera.
    • Induced Mu phage production via thermal induction in lysogens.
    • Created intergeneric recombinant strains through gene transfer, including the arylsulfatase gene.

    Main Results:

    • Successfully expanded coliphage Mu's host range to include genera such as Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Salmonella, Pseudomonas, and others.
    • Demonstrated successful transfer of Mu phage production to most recipient bacteria, except Bacillus.
    • Achieved intergeneric gene transfer between Klebsiella aerogenes and E. coli, creating recombinant strains.

    Conclusions:

    • The RP4::Mu cts plasmid facilitates significant expansion of coliphage Mu's host range.
    • Genetic analysis and intergeneric gene transfer are now feasible in a broader spectrum of RP4::Mu-sensitive bacteria.
    • This work provides a powerful tool for molecular biology research across diverse bacterial species.

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