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Plasmid-mediated UV-protection in Myxococcus xanthus

K McCann, C H Clarke

    Molecular & General Genetics : MGG
    |January 1, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    Plasmids R46 and R68.45 were transferred into Myxococcus xanthus. Plasmid R68.45 enhanced UV survival and phage reactivation in M. xanthus, demonstrating its protective effects.

    Area of Science:

    • Microbiology
    • Molecular Biology
    • Bacteriology

    Background:

    • Myxococcus xanthus is a soil-dwelling bacterium with complex life cycles.
    • Bacterial plasmids can confer advantageous traits, such as resistance to environmental stressors.
    • Understanding plasmid transfer and function is crucial for bacterial genetics.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the transfer of plasmids R46 and R68.45 into Myxococcus xanthus.
    • To determine the effects of these plasmids on M. xanthus survival after UV irradiation.
    • To assess the impact of plasmid carriage on the phage reactivation capabilities of M. xanthus.

    Main Methods:

    • Conjugative transfer of plasmids R46 and R68.45 from Escherichia coli K-12 into M. xanthus strains MD-1 and XK.
    • Exposure of plasmid-carrying M. xanthus to UV-244 nm irradiation to assess survival rates.
    • Assay of M. xanthus's ability to reactivate UV-irradiated myxophages (Weigle reactivation).

    Main Results:

    • Plasmid R46 transfer was successful into M. xanthus MD-1 but not XK.
    • Plasmid R68.45 was successfully transferred into both M. xanthus strains.
    • Plasmid R68.45 significantly increased M. xanthus survival post-UV irradiation.
    • Plasmid R68.45 enhanced the host's capacity for reactivating UV-irradiated myxophages.

    Conclusions:

    • Plasmid R68.45 confers UV resistance and enhances phage reactivation in Myxococcus xanthus.
    • The transfer and expression of specific plasmids can modify bacterial responses to DNA damage.
    • This study highlights the potential of using plasmids to improve the resilience of M. xanthus.

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