Transport capabilities encoded within the Bacillus subtilis genome

Abstract

We here describe all recognized established and putative transport proteins encoded within the genome of Bacillus subtilis. These fall into four classes of established transporter types: (1) channel proteins, (2) secondary active transporters, (3) primary active transporters, and (4) group translocators of the sugar-transporting phosphotransferase system (PTS). Additionally, some transporters are recognized that utilize an unknown mode of action or energy coupling mechanism. The secondary carriers (which represent the majority of Bacillus transporters) are subdivided according to substrate specificity and family association. Characteristics of the families as well as the individual transport systems are presented when sufficient information is available. The recognized transporters fall into 58 families including 4 channel types, 42 secondary carrier types, 3 primary carrier types, 4 PTS-types and 5 unknown types.