The Escherichia coli Yej transporter is required for the uptake of translation inhibitor microcin C

J Bacteriol. 2007 Nov;189(22):8361-5. doi: 10.1128/JB.01028-07. Epub 2007 Sep 14.

Abstract

Microcin C (McC), a peptide-nucleotide antibiotic, targets aspartyl-tRNA synthetase. By analyzing a random transposon library, we identified Escherichia coli mutants resistant to McC. Transposon insertions were localized to a single locus, yejABEF, which encodes components of a putative inner membrane ABC transporter. Analysis of site-specific mutants established that all four components of the transporter are required for McC sensitivity. Since aspartyl-tRNA synthetase in yej mutant extracts was fully sensitive to McC, we conclude that yej mutations interfere with McC uptake and that YejABEF is the only inner membrane transporter responsible for McC uptake in E. coli. Other substrates of YejABEF remain to be identified.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters / genetics
  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters / metabolism
  • Bacteriocins / metabolism*
  • Bacteriocins / pharmacology
  • Escherichia coli / genetics*
  • Escherichia coli / metabolism*
  • Escherichia coli Proteins / genetics*
  • Escherichia coli Proteins / metabolism*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
  • Mutagenesis, Site-Directed
  • Mutation
  • Phylogeny
  • Protein Biosynthesis / drug effects

Substances

  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters
  • Bacteriocins
  • Escherichia coli Proteins
  • microcin