Bacteriophage polysaccharide depolymerases, their role and biotechnological applications

Abstract

[Excerpt] Several virulence factors have been identified in Gram-negative bacilli, among which the capsular structures which are suggested to be involved in the evasion of microbial defences. Although the capsule is commonly associated with bacteriophage resistance, some bacteriophages can recognize this structure as a receptor with the aid of structural polysaccharide depolymerases. Bacteriophages have then evolved along with the bacteria to recognize different types of capsules. This feature is well illustrated in phages infecting Acinetobacter spp. known to display at least 106 capsular types. [...]