Cell-Associated Pheromone Peptide (cCF10) Production and Pheromone Inhibition in Enterococcus faecalis

• DOI: 10.1128/jb.182.17.4926-4933.2000
• Publication Date: 2002-07-27T10:00:58Z
• Authors: B. A. (Leonard) B...; M. H. Antiporta; G. M. Dunny
• Keywords: Cell envelope; Enterococcus faecalis; Cell membrane

ABSTRACT In Enterococcus faecalis , the peptide cCF10 acts as a pheromone, inducing transfer of conjugative plasmid pCF10 from plasmid-containing donor cells to plasmid-free recipient cells. these studies, it was found that substantial amount associates with envelope producing cell. Pheromone activity detected in both wall and membrane fractions, highest associated wall. Experiments examining effects protease inhibitor treatments either prior or following cell fractionation suggested presence envelope-associated pro-cCF10 can be processed mature by maturase protease. A pCF10-encoded protein, PrgY, shown prevent self-induction reducing level pheromone fraction.