Identification and analysis of a gene (abpA) encoding a major amylase-binding protein in Streptococcus gordonii

Article Abstract:

The gene abpA which codes for the 20 kiloDalton amylase-binding protein from the oral cavity colonizer Streptococcus gordonii was identified using a conjugative transposon that inactivates the genes necessary for the expression of this protein. Single-specific-primer polymerase chain reaction was used to sequence this gene which revealed an open reading frame 585 base pairs in length. The implications of these findings on the bacterial colonization of the oral cavity are discussed.

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Biological functions of the UDP-glucose synthesis in Streptococcus mutans

Article Abstract:

The Streptococcus mutans gene coding for glucose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase was identified and characterized. Heterologous expression of this gene in Escherichia coli cell extracts imparted specific enzymatic activity to the preparation. Insertional inactivation of this gene lowered the glucose content of the cell walls of mutant S. mutans and lowered their viability in acidic media.

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Retrotransfer or gene capture: a feature of conjugative plasmids, with ecological and evolutionary significance

Article Abstract:

This review discusses retrotransfer in a bacterial gene exchange process in which the donor bacterium inherits the genetic traits from the mating partner. This phenomenon is seen in IncP and BHR plasmids and its evolutionary and ecological significance are presented.

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