Competition Triggers Plasmid-Mediated Enhancement of Substrate Utilisation in Pseudomonas putida

摘要: Competition between species plays a central role in the activity and structure of communities. Stable co-existence diverse organisms communities is thought to be fostered by individual tradeoffs optimization competitive strategies along resource gradients. Outside laboratory, microbes exist as multispecies consortia, continuously interacting with one another environment. Survival proliferation particular governed its fitness. Therefore, bacteria must able sense their immediate environs for presence competitors prevailing conditions. Here we present results our investigations on novel competition sensing mechanism rhizosphere-inhabiting Pseudomonas putida KT2440, harbouring gfpmut3b-modified KanR TOL plasmid. We monitored benzyl alcohol (BA) degradation rate, GFP expression profiling mono dual cultures. Interestingly, enhanced plasmid (monitored using expression) consequent BA were observed irrespective whether competitor was degrader (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) or non-degrader (E. coli). Attempts at elucidation mechanistic aspects induction indicated physical interaction, but not any diffusible compounds emanating from competitors. This contention supported observation that greater took place increasing number Inert microspheres mimicking cell size concentration did elicit significant induction, further suggesting cell-cell interaction. Furthermore, it also established wall compromised had minimal capability. conclude P. pWW0 experience stress when grown dual-species consortium, counterpart being not. The effect this marked increase TOL, leading rapid utilization available carbon source massive population density. plausible mechanisms behind phenomenon are hypothesised practical implications discussed.