Karatan Lab

Role of potABC genes on polyamine transport and biofilm formation in Vibrio cholerae

My project is to determine the role of the potA, potB, and potC genes on polyamine transport and biofilm formation in Vibrio cholerae.  These genes are a component of the putative potABCD2D1 operon found in V. cholerae.  The genes encoded by this operon are assumed to play a role in the transport of polyamines.  The function of potD1 has been shown as being part of the spermidine transport system which in turn represses the formation of biofilms.  My project will focus on establishing whether or not the potA, potB, and potC genes encode a portion of the polyamine transport mechanism such that an absence in a functioning potA, potB, or potC gene will result in a diminished degree of the polyamine spermidine. I am also interested in the potential effect of this operon on biofilm formation. At this time, little is known about the exact mechanisms behind polyamine transport and its effect on consequent biofilm formation in V. cholera.  Therefore, my project goals are to elucidate the roles of the potABC genes thereby determining the effects on polyamine transport and biofilm formation and revealing information regarding the mechanisms driving polyamine transport within V. cholerae.