Methods for Transposon Mutagenesis in Proteus mirabilis

Abstract

Several methods for transposon mutagenesis have been employed for use in P. mirabilis. The first method involves the use of mini-Tn5 derivatives, which are delivered by conjugation of a suicide plasmid containing this transposon, followed by transposition into the chromosome. A second method is the use of preformed transposon/transposase complexes (transposomes), which are introduced into P. mirabilis cells by electroporation. Each of these methods will be discussed along with the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Keywords: Mini-Tn5; Proteus; Swarming; Transposome; Transposon mutagenesis; Virulence.