Deletion of the yiaMNO transporter genes affects the growth characteristics of Escherichia coli K-12

Abstract

Binding-protein-dependent secondary transporters make up a unique transport protein family. They use a solute-binding protein in proton-motive-force-driven transport. Only a few systems have been functionally analysed. The yiaMNO genes of Escherichia coli K-12 encode one family member that transports the rare pentose l-xylulose. Its physiological role is unknown, since wild-type E. coli K-12 does not utilize l-xylulose as sole carbon source. Deletion of the yiaMNO genes in E. coli K-12 strain MC4100 resulted in remarkable changes in the transition from exponential growth to the stationary phase, high-salt survival and biofilm formation.