Functional gene transfer towards a broad range of recipients with the aid of vector particles originating from thermophiles

Abstract

Escherichia coli, a mesophilic bacterium, acquired viability above its permissive temperature with the aid of broad-host range gene transfer particle (VP) originating from Aquifex sp and Thermococcus kodakaraensis B41. Gene transfer capable VPs have likely mediated the transfer of a functional thermo-resistance gene. VPs are already known to transfer enzyme genes to rescue auxotrophic recipients. VP particles, as part of a group of ubiquitously distributing virus-like particles (VLPs), are likely to take part in gene flux that enables horizontal gene transfer that enhances biodiversity and evolution.