Genome-wide transposon mutagenesis of Borrelia burgdorferi for identification of phenotypic mutants

Article Abstract:

The development of a new genetic tool, a random mutagenesis system based on a mariner transposon that is used to address a basic physiological question about spirochetes is reported. By combining the transposon system with a screen for factors affecting growth rate, mutations were readily identified in genes putatively involved in cell division and chemotaxis and a hypothetical open reading frame involved in outer membrane integrity and thus the successful adaptation of a mariner transposon to function in B. burgdorferi will aid in identifying virulence factors and a novel gene products related to spirochete physiology.

Phenotype, Phenotypes, Open reading frames

SIMPLE approach for isolating mutants expressing fimbriae

Article Abstract:

A new technique for identifying fimbriated bacteria from a library of transposon mutants by screening with immunomagnetic particles for ligand expression (SIMPLE) is described. It is suggested that SIMPLE method is an effective approach for isolating fimbriated bacteria that is readily applied to fimbrial operons identified by whole-genome sequencing.

Gene expression

Evolution of the chaperone/usher assembly pathway: fimbrial classification goes Greek

Article Abstract:

The phylogeny of operons belonging to the chaperone/usher assembly class is reviewed to explore the utility of establishing a scheme for subdividing them into clades of phylogenetically related gene clusters. The analysis shows that the chaperone/usher assembly class is subdivided into six major phylogenetic clades.

Usage, Genetic aspects, Bacteria, Cladistic analysis, Structure, Molecular chaperones