Diverse and divergent protein post-translational modifications in two growth stages of a natural microbial community

Zhou Li, Yingfeng Wang, Qiuming Yao, Nicholas B. Justice, Tae Hyuk Ahn, Dong Xu, Robert L. Hettich, Jillian F. Banfield, Chongle Pan

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49 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Detailed characterization of post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins in microbial communities remains a significant challenge. Here we directly identify and quantify a broad range of PTMs (hydroxylation, methylation, citrullination, acetylation, phosphorylation, methylthiolation, S-nitrosylation and nitration) in a natural microbial community from an acid mine drainage site. Approximately 29% of the identified proteins of the dominant Leptospirillum group II bacteria are modified, and 43% of modified proteins carry multiple PTM types. Most PTM events, except S-nitrosylations, have low fractional occupancy. Notably, PTM events are detected on Cas proteins involved in antiviral defense, an aspect of Cas biochemistry not considered previously. Further, Cas PTM profiles from Leptospirillum group II differ in early versus mature biofilms. PTM patterns are divergent on orthologues of two closely related, but ecologically differentiated, Leptospirillum group II bacteria. Our results highlight the prevalence and dynamics of PTMs of proteins, with potential significance for ecological adaptation and microbial evolution.

Original languageEnglish
Article number4405
Number of pages11
JournalNature Communications
Volume5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 25 Jul 2014
Externally publishedYes

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