Lifecycle of a predatory bacterium vampirizing its prey through the cell envelope and S-layer

Yoann G. Santin, Adrià Sogues, Yvann Bourigault, Han K. Remaut and Géraldine Laloux ()
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Yoann G. Santin: UCLouvain
Adrià Sogues: Structural Biology Research Center, VIB
Yvann Bourigault: UCLouvain
Han K. Remaut: Structural Biology Research Center, VIB
Géraldine Laloux: UCLouvain

Nature Communications, 2024, vol. 15, issue 1, 1-12

Abstract: Abstract Predatory bacteria feed upon other bacteria in various environments. Bdellovibrio exovorus is an obligate epibiotic predator that attaches on the prey cell surface, where it grows and proliferates. Although the mechanisms allowing feeding through the prey cell envelope are unknown, it has been proposed that the prey’s proteinaceous S-layer may act as a defensive structure against predation. Here, we use time-lapse and cryo-electron microscopy to image the lifecycle of B. exovorus feeding on Caulobacter crescentus. We show that B. exovorus proliferates by non-binary division, primarily generating three daughter cells. Moreover, the predator feeds on C. crescentus regardless of the presence of an S-layer, challenging its assumed protective role against predators. Finally, we show that apparently secure junctions are established between prey and predator outer membranes.

Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48042-5

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