Studies on Bd0934 and Bd3507, Two Secreted Nucleases from Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus , Reveal Sequential Release of Nucleases during the Predatory Cycle

Abstract

Antibiotic resistance is a major global concern with few available new means to combat it. From a therapeutic perspective, predatory bacteria constitute an interesting tool. They not only eliminate the pathogen but also reduce the overall pool of antibiotic resistance genes through secretion of nucleases and complete degradation of exogenous DNA. Molecular knowledge of how these secreted DNases act will give us further insight into how antibiotic resistance, and the spread thereof, can be limited through the action of predatory bacteria.