Host functions involved in multiplication of single-stranded DNA phages S13, φR, and φKh-1 were examined using various DNA replication mutants of
E. coli. When the phage-resistant bacteria were to be tested, glycine spheroplasts or Ca
2+-treated cells were transfected by the phage DNA. Replication of S13 and φR required host
dnaB,
dnaC(D), dnaE,
dnaG, and dnaZ gene products. On the other hand, growth of φKh-1 was dependent on cellular
dnaE, dnaF(nrdA), dnaG, and
dnaZ functions, but not on
dnaB and
dnaC(D) activities. Multiplication of these phages absolutely relied on host
rep function. Based on these host factor requirements, relationship among single-stranded DNA phages was discussed. In addition, host range and antigenic property of φKh-1 were compared with those of the related phages.
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