Chemotaxis of Silicibacter sp. Strain TM1040 toward Dinoflagellate Products

• DOI: 10.1128/aem.70.8.4692-4701.2004
• Publication Date: 2004-08-04T17:08:33Z
• Authors: Todd R. Miller; Kristin Hnilicka; Amanda Dziedzic; Paula Desplats; Robert Belas
• Keywords: Dinoflagellate; Dimethylsulfoniopropionate; Strain (injury); Roseobacter

ABSTRACT The α-proteobacteria phylogenetically related to the Roseobacter clade are predominantly responsible for degradation of organosulfur compounds, including algal osmolyte dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP). Silicibacter sp. strain TM1040, isolated from a DMSP-producing Pfiesteria piscicida dinoflagellate culture, degrades DMSP, producing 3-methylmercaptopropionate. TM1040 possesses three lophotrichous flagella and is highly motile, leading hypothesis that interacts with P. through chemotactic response compounds produced by its host. A combination rapid chemotaxis screening assay quantitative capillary were used measure TM1040. These bacteria attracted homogenates; however, decreases when homogenates preheated 80°C. To help identify essential attractant molecules within homogenates, series pure tested their ability serve as attractants. results show strongly amino acids DMSP metabolites, while being only mildly responsive sugars tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates. Adding methionine, or valine buffer resulted in decreased indicating exogenous addition these chemicals blocks suggesting homogenates. implication establishing maintaining interaction discussed.