Structural and functional analysis of the gene cluster encoding the enzymes of the arginine deiminase pathway of Lactobacillus sake

The genes involved in the arginine deiminase (ADI) pathway of Lactobacillus sake were cloned and characterized to examine the regulation of arginine catabolism. Sequence analysis revealed that the genes involved in arginine catabolism were clustered and encoded ADI, carbamate kinase, ornithine transcarbamoylase and a putative carrier. A putative transaminase-encoding gene was also located in this region. Construction of mutants through genetic disruption in all of the encoded enzymes showed that the enzymes are necessary for correct functioning of the pathway.