A novel cell surface polysaccharide in Pseudomonas putida WCS358, which shares characteristics with Escherichia coli K antigens, is not involved in root colonization

A unique cell surface-exposed structure in Pseudomonas putida WCS358 was studied by a specific monoclonal antibody. This cell surface structure seems to be a polysaccharide. It does not contain 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate, heptose or lipid A which shows that it is not a second type of lipopolysaccharide. The polysaccharide exhibited characteristics which are similar to that of the K antigen from Escherichia coli. Findings revealed that the structure is composed of an O-specific polysaccharide of lipopolysaccharide and a novel polysaccharide which is not involved in adhesion to the potato root.