Na+-Coupled Respiration and Reshaping of Extracellular Polysaccharide Layer Counteract Monensin-Induced Cation Permeability in Prevotella bryantii B14

Monensin is an ionophore for monovalent cations, which is frequently used to prevent ketosis and to enhance performance in dairy cows. Studies have shown the rumen bacteria Prevotella bryantii B14 being less affected by monensin. The present study aimed to reveal more information about the respective molecular mechanisms in P.bryantii, as there is still a lack of knowledge about defense mechanisms against monensin. Cell growth experiments applying increasing concentrations of monensin and incubations up to 72 h were done. Harvested cells were used for label-free quantitative proteomics, enzyme activity measurements, quantification of intracellular sodium and extracellular glucose concentrations and fluorescence microscopy. Our findings confirmed an active cell growth and fermentation activity of P.bryantii B14 despite monensin concentrations up to 60 µM. An elevated abundance and activity of the Na+-translocating NADH:quinone oxidoreductase counteracted sodium influx caused by monensin. Cell membranes and extracellular polysaccharides were highly influenced by monensin indicated by a reduced number of outer membrane proteins, an increased number of certain glucoside hydrolases and an elevated concentration of extracellular glucose. Thus, a reconstruction of extracellular polysaccharides in P.bryantii in response to monensin is proposed, which is expected to have a negative impact on the substrate binding capacities of this rumen bacterium.