Two Tales of Prokaryotic Genomic Diversity: Escherichia coli and Halophiles
Lejla Pašić, Jerneja Ambrožić Avguštin, Marjanca Starčič Erjavec, Blagajana Herzog-Velikonja, Zdravko Podlesek and Darja Žgur-Bertok*
Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Večna pot 111, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Article history:
Received October 28, 2013
Accepted March 21, 2014
Key words:
Escherichia coli, genomic diversity, virulence, antibiotic resistance, SOS response, bacteriocins, halophiles, metagenomics
Summary:
Prokaryotes are generally characterized by vast genomic diversity that has been shaped by mutations, horizontal gene transfer, bacteriocins and phage predation. Enormous genetic diversity has developed as a result of stresses imposed in harsh environments and the ability of microorganisms to adapt. Two examples of prokaryotic diversity are presented: on intraspecies level, exemplified by Escherichia coli, and the diversity of the hypersaline environment, with the discussion of food-related health issues and biotechnological potential.
