Abstract
The de novo biosynthesis of methionine is widespread in many microorganisms, as consistent with the vital role of methionine in the initiation of protein synthesis and in diverse metabolic pathways. In this chapter, the general biochemistry of bacterial methionine biosynthesis and the generic types of its regulation are outlined. Common features and differences of bacterial methionine metabolism are exemplified by illustrating the pathway in the model organisms Escherichia coli, Corynebacterium glutamicum, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Finally, the exploitation of methionine biosynthesis as an anti-infective drug target is discussed.