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Transposable elements in Lactococci: a review
1Department of Microbiology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh 27695.
Journal of Dairy Science
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Transposable elements, specifically insertion sequences (ISS1, IS904, IS981), are present in Lactococcus, a key genus for dairy fermentation. These elements influence crucial traits like metabolism and phage resistance, offering potential for genetic engineering.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The genus Lactococcus includes microorganisms vital for fermented dairy product manufacturing.
- Genetic studies reveal the presence and activity of transposable elements within Lactococcus species.
- Transposable elements, or "jumping genes," can alter microbial genomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize transposable elements in Lactococcus.
- To investigate the association of these elements with industrially relevant traits.
- To discuss their role in evolution and potential as genetic engineering tools.
Main Methods:
- Genetic characterization of insertion sequence elements (ISS1, IS904, IS981).
- Analysis of transposition-like events.
- Comparative genomics to assess relationships with other microbial insertion sequences.
Main Results:
- Three insertion sequence elements (ISS1, IS904, IS981) were fully characterized in Lactococcus.
- These elements share properties with known insertion sequences from diverse microorganisms.
- Association of insertion sequences with lactose/sucrose metabolism, proteinase activity, nisin production/immunity, conjugal transfer, and phage resistance was identified.
Conclusions:
- Insertion sequence elements are integral to Lactococcus, influencing traits critical for milk environments.
- These elements play a role in the evolution of Lactococcus.
- Lactococcal insertion sequences present opportunities for advanced genetic engineering applications.