The membrane-associated F(0)F(1) ATPase is essential for the viability of Streptococcus pneumoniae

Abstract

Genetic studies aimed at eliminating expression of the atp operon (F(0)F(1) H(+)-ATPase) of Streptococcus pneumoniae by genetic disruption of atpC, the first gene of the operon, with a chloramphenicol-resistance cassette were performed. Resistant transformants were obtained only when the recipient strain had a duplication of atpC, recombination occurring in such a way that transcription of the operon from its own promoter was allowed. These results imply that the atp operon is essential for the viability of the cells.