Genetic manipulation of Staphylococci-breaking through the barrier.
Most strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis possess a strong restriction barrier that hinders exchange of DNA. Recently, major advances have been made in identifying and characterizing the restriction-modification (RM) systems involved. In particular a novel type IV restriction enzyme that recognizes cytosine methylated DNA has been shown to be the major barrier to transfer of plasmid DNA from Escherichia coli into S. aureus and S. epidermidis. While the conserved type I RM system provides a further barrier. Here we review the recent advances in understanding of restriction systems in staphylococci and highlight how this has been exploited to improve our ability to manipulate genetically previously untransformable strains.
Department of Microbiology, Moyne Institute of Preventive Medicine, School of Genetics and Microbiology, Trinity College Dublin Dublin, Ireland. monki@tcd.ie
Ian R
IR
Monk
Timothy J
TJ
Foster
D015280:DNA Restriction-Modification Enzymes; D004926:Escherichia coli / Q000235:genetics; D018014:Gene Transfer Techniques; D022761:Gene Transfer, Horizontal; D010957:Plasmids; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus / Q000235:genetics*; D013212:Staphylococcus epidermidis / Q000235:genetics*
D015280:DNA Restriction-Modification Enzymes