Phi X174 protein E-mediated lysis of Escherichia coli

Abstract

Bacteriophage PhiX174 encodes a single lysis gene, E, the function of which is necessary and sufficient to induce lysis of Escherichia coli. Here we present a novel model for E-lysis: physiological, genetic and biochemical data are presented which suggest that a transmembrane tunnel penetrating the inner and outer membrane is formed during the lytic action of protein E. Moreover, using high magnification scanning and transmission electron microscopy in this study, it was possible to visualize the transmembrane lysis structure directly.