Poly-Gamma-Glutamic Acid Secretion Protects Bacillus subtilis from Zinc and Copper Intoxication.

ABSTRACT: Zinc and copper are essential micronutrients that serve as a cofactors for numerous enzymes. However, when present at elevated concentrations, zinc and copper are highly toxic to bacteria. To combat the effects of zinc and copper excess, bacteria have evolved a wide array of defense mechanisms. Here, we show that the Gram-positive soil bacterium, Bacillus subtilis, produces the extracellular polymeric substance, poly-gamma-glutamate (γ-PGA) as a protective mechanism in response to zinc and copper excess. Furthermore, we provide evidence that zinc and copper dependent γ-PGA production is independent of the DegS-DegQ two-component regulatory system and likely occurs at a posttranscriptional level through the small protein, PgsE. These data provide new insight into bacterial metal resistance

SUBMITTER: Deol R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9045300 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature