Yeaz, the resuscitation-promoting factor

Bacteria could enter into a viable but non-culturable state (VBNC) state when exposed to harsh conditions such as extreme temperature, nutritional starvation, osmotic stress and oxidative stress. These VBNC cells are intact and alive with low metabolic activities. Physiological changes occurred when bacterial cells enter to the VBNC state, such as reduction in size, reduction of the macromolecular synthesis, but the normal extracellular membrane was maintained. They can be resuscitated in favorable conditions and retains their pathogenicity after resuscitation. Yeaz is the resuscitation-promoting factor: addition of YeaZ to soil samples can promote the recovery of VBNC for a number of bacteria. The mechanism of the promoting resuscitation is still unclear. The conserved nature of YeaZ and YgjD and their tandem role in the t6A37 modification and regulation of BCAA synthesis, as well as YeaZ’s role in cell wall biosynthesis, the regulation of the VBNC state, and repairing interstrand DNA cross-links highlight why these proteins can serve as potential targets for new antimicrobial drugs given the continued rise of antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

Members:
Michela Bollati (Principal investigator)
Mario Milani