Insights into 6S RNA in lactic acid bacteria (LAB)

THÜRING, MARIETTA; HARTMANN, ROLAND K.; KLEMM, PAUL; HEBERT, ELVIRA MARIA; CATALDO, PABLO GABRIEL; SAAVEDRA, LUCILA; LECHNER, MARCUS

BMC Genomic Data

Springer Nature

Año: 2021 vol. 22

6S RNA is a regulator of cellular transcription that tunes the metabolism of cells. This small non-coding RNA is found in nearly all bacteria and among the most abundant transcripts. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) constitute a group of microorganisms with strong biotechnological relevance, often exploited as starter cultures for industrial products through fermentation. Some strains are used as probiotics while others represent potential pathogens. Occasional reports of 6S RNA within this group already indicate striking metabolic implications. A conceivable idea is that LAB with 6S RNA defects may metabolize nutrients faster, as inferred from studies of Echerichia coli. This may accelerate fermentation processes with the potential to reduce production costs. Similarly, elevated levels of secondary metabolites might be produced. Evidence for this possibility comes from preliminary findings regarding the production of surfactin in Bacillus subtilis, which has functions similar to those of bacteriocins. The prerequisite for its potential biotechnological utility is a general characterization of 6S RNA in LAB.