Identification and characterization of the gerH operon of Bacillus anthracis endospores: a differential role for purine nucleosides in germination

J Bacteriol. 2003 Feb;185(4):1462-4. doi: 10.1128/JB.185.4.1462-1464.2003.

Abstract

We identified a tri-cistronic operon, gerH, in Bacillus anthracis that is important for endospore germination triggered by two distinct germination response pathways termed inosine-His and purine-Ala. Together, the two pathways allow B. anthracis endospores a broader recognition of purines and amino acids that may be important for host-mediated germination.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Alanine / pharmacology
  • Amino Acids / pharmacology
  • Bacillus anthracis / genetics
  • Bacillus anthracis / physiology*
  • Bacterial Proteins / genetics*
  • Bacterial Proteins / metabolism
  • Inosine / pharmacology
  • Operon*
  • Purine Nucleosides / pharmacology*
  • Spores, Bacterial / genetics
  • Spores, Bacterial / physiology

Substances

  • Amino Acids
  • Bacterial Proteins
  • Purine Nucleosides
  • Inosine
  • Alanine