Enterococcus faecalis Manganese Exporter MntE Alleviates Manganese Toxicity and Is Required for Mouse Gastrointestinal Colonization
Ling Ning Lam, Jun Jie Wong, Kelvin Kian Long Chong, Kimberly A. Kline
Abstract
Bacterial pathogens encounter a variety of nutritional environments in the human host, including nutrient metal restriction and overload. Uptake of manganese (Mn) is essential for Enterococcus faecalis growth and virulence; however, it is not known how this organism prevents Mn toxicity. In this study, we examine the role of the highly conserved MntE transporter in E. faecalis Mn homeostasis and virulence. We show that inactivation of mntE results in growth restriction in the presence of excess Mn, but not other metals, demonstrating its specific role in Mn detoxification.
Topics & Concepts
BiologyEnterococcus faecalisManganeseColonizationToxicityMicrobiologyEnterococcusBacteriaAntibioticsInternal medicineStaphylococcus aureusMedicineChemistryGeneticsOrganic chemistryTrace Elements in HealthChromium effects and bioremediationHeavy Metal Exposure and Toxicity