ABSTRACT
Members of the Gram-negative bacterial genus Pseudomonas are ubiquitous in soil and water ecosystems. Amongst amino acids, arginine metabolism, especially, is key in Pseudomonas biochemistry, with several catabolic pathways identified for breaking down this substrate. Analysis of amino acid metabolism in Pseudomonas is important not only for biochemical elucidation, but also for taxonomical classification of the genus. QS facilitates coordinated gene expression in response to environmental signals and bacterial population density. Many sigma factors have been reported in Pseudomonas species, and these sigma factors are critical for optimal RNA polymerase-mediated gene transcription activity. Bacterial cell surface virulence factors, such as flagella, pili, and lipopolysaccharide, aid in initial adhesion to the host epithelial layer. Pseudomonas is a genus that continues to fascinate microbiologists with its phenotypic and genotypic diversity. As additional genomic and transcriptomic data is revealed, the people likely discover novel properties of this extraordinary genus.
