Microcin-mediated interactions between Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli strains.

Abstract

Amensal indirect interactions between a Klebsiella pneumoniae microcin-producing strain and several Escherichia coli strains, all of intestinal origin, were studied. Mixed batch cultures of both microcin-producing and microcin-sensitive strains showed that microcin production and excretion into the medium allowed the producer strain to prevail over sensitive strains, even when initial competition conditions were highly unfavourable for the producer. Mixed cultures also showed the production of a microcin-antagonist by the same microcin-producing strain when the nutrients in the medium had been depleted. The antagonist apparently promoted the viability of sensitive cells already damaged by microcin. These results have likely ecological implications.