Spatially localised expression of the glutamate decarboxylase gadB in Escherichia coli O157:H7 microcolonies in hydrogel matrices.

ABSTRACT: Functional diversity within isogenic spatially organised bacterial populations has been shown to trigger emergent community properties such as stress tolerance. Considering gadB gene encoding a key glutamate decarboxylase involved in E. coli tolerance to acidic conditions, we investigated its expression in hydrogels mimicking the texture of some structured food matrices (such as minced meat or soft cheese). Taking advantage of confocal laser scanning microscopy combined with a genetically-engineered dual fluorescent reporter system, it was possible to visualise the spatial patterns of bacterial gene expression from in-gel microcolonies. In E. coli O157:H7 microcolonies, gadB showed radically different expression patterns between neutral (pH 7) or acidic (pH 5) hydrogels. Differential spati

SUBMITTER: Saint Martin C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10576782 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature