A type IV pilus mediates DNA binding during natural transformation in Streptococcus pneumoniae.
PLoS Pathog
; 9(6): e1003473, 2013.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-23825953
ABSTRACT
Natural genetic transformation is widely distributed in bacteria and generally occurs during a genetically programmed differentiated state called competence. This process promotes genome plasticity and adaptability in Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Transformation requires the binding and internalization of exogenous DNA, the mechanisms of which are unclear. Here, we report the discovery of a transformation pilus at the surface of competent Streptococcus pneumoniae cells. This Type IV-like pilus, which is primarily composed of the ComGC pilin, is required for transformation. We provide evidence that it directly binds DNA and propose that the transformation pilus is the primary DNA receptor on the bacterial cell during transformation in S. pneumoniae. Being a central component of the transformation apparatus, the transformation pilus enables S. pneumoniae, a major Gram-positive human pathogen, to acquire resistance to antibiotics and to escape vaccines through the binding and incorporation of new genetic material.
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Streptococcus pneumoniae
/
Transformação Bacteriana
/
DNA Bacteriano
/
Fímbrias Bacterianas
/
Proteínas de Fímbrias
Limite:
Humans
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2013
Tipo de documento:
Article