OBJECTIVETo identify the functions of the proteins containing the GGDEF or EAL domain in Lactobacillus acidophilus for investigation of the regulatory mechanism of c-di-GMP in this strain.

METHODSThe DNA fragments of NH13_07045-GGDEF, NH13_07050 and NH13_07055 from Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356 were amplified by PCR and cloned into the expression vector pMAL-His-c2. After sequencing, the recombinant plasmids were transformed into competent Escherichia coli cells, which were induced by IPTG to express the recombinant proteins fused with maltose binding protein (MBP). The fusion proteins were purified using amylose resin column for diguanylate cyclase (DGC) or phosphodiesterase (PDE) activity assays in vitro followed by analysis with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

RESULTSThe target DNA fragments were obtained by PCR, and their sequences were all identical to that in GenBank. The purified and concentrated fusion proteins, which were identified by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting, had relative molecular masses of 59 kD, 67 kD and 72 kD. HPLC analysis showed no DGC activity in NH13_07045-GGDEF, while PDE activity was found in NH13_07050 but not in NH13_07055.

CONCLUSIONWe obtained the protein encoded by NH13_07050 that possesses PDE activity in vitro. This protein may facilitate the evaluation of the regulatory function of c-di-GMP in Lactobacillus acidophilus.