Functional Genomics of Lactic Acid Bacteria

Abstract

The lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are a diverse group of microorganisms related by their common metabolic and physiological characteristics and named for the major end product of their primary metabolism. Major advances have been made in the genomic characterization of the LAB. A number of LAB genomes have been sequenced and are publicly available, while more genomes are being sequenced. This chapter lists genome features of sequenced LAB. While genomic analyses of LAB have identified features important for the functionality of the organisms in bioprocessing and health, further characterization of genes and gene products remains important for understanding cell physiology, metabolic and signaling networks, and molecular interactions of LAB with their environments. This information is rapidly providing a mechanistic understanding of these microorganisms and identifying important gene sets critical to their functionality. An understanding of genes directing important metabolic pathways combined with the tools available for the inactivation of undesirable genes and overexpression of existing or novel genes will certainly aid in the production of important food ingredients or food products with improved flavor and nutritional properties. Because of their acid tolerance, record of safety, and ability to modulate the immune system, considerable interest has developed for using LAB as live vectors for the delivery of vaccines and other biotherapeutics to the intestinal mucosa.