How Symbiotic Bacteria Survive Host Defenses
Author Information
Author(s): Haag Andreas F., Baloban Mikhail, Sani Monica, Kerscher Bernhard, Pierre Olivier, Farkas Attila, Longhi Renato, Boncompagni Eric, Hérouart Didier, Dall’Angelo Sergio, Kondorosi Eva, Zanda Matteo, Mergaert Peter, Ferguson Gail P.
Primary Institution: University of Aberdeen
Hypothesis
BacA is critical for the bacterial response towards NCR AMPs.
Conclusion
BacA is essential for protecting Sinorhizobium meliloti against the bactericidal effects of host antimicrobial peptides, enabling successful symbiosis.
Supporting Evidence
- BacA was critical to reduce the amount of NCR AMP-induced membrane permeabilization and bacterial killing in vitro.
- Wild-type bacteria persisted in the presence of NCR AMPs, while BacA-deficient mutants died rapidly.
- BacA is essential for the legume symbiosis by protecting S. meliloti against the bactericidal effects of NCR AMPs.
Takeaway
BacA helps bacteria survive in plants by protecting them from harmful substances made by the plants, allowing them to live together happily.
Methodology
The study involved in vitro experiments with S. meliloti strains and the analysis of their responses to NCR AMPs.
Limitations
The study does not explore the exact mechanism by which BacA protects against NCR AMPs.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p≤0.001
Statistical Significance
p≤0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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