S-layer proteins from lactobacilli: biogenesis, structure, functionality and biotechnological applications

M. MALAMUD, P. BOLLA, P. CARASI, E. GERBINO, A. GOMEZ ZAVAGLIA, P. MOBILI, M.A.SERRADELL

Lactobacillus genomics and metabolic engineering

Caister Academic Press

Año: 2018; p. 1 - 30

The S-layer is a (glyco)-proteinaceous envelope made up of subunits that self-assemble to form a two-dimensional lattice that covers the surface of different species of Bacteria and Archaea. The S-layer (glyco)-proteins have been shown to possess exceptional physicochemical properties which make them unique organizational structures with high potential application in different areas of biotechnology. It represents a very interesting model system for studying the processes involved in the synthesis, secretion and assembly of extracellular proteins. Among bacteria, its presence has been demonstrated in many species of lactobacilli, some of which could be considered as probiotic microorganisms. In this chapter, we will discuss the most relevant and updated concepts regarding genetics, structural features, cell wall- and self-assembly, functionality and biotechnological applications of the S-layer proteins from lactobacilli.