Transcriptome analysis of xylo-oligosaccharides utilization systems in Weissella confusa XU1

ObjectiveThe prebiotic effect of xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) has obtained much attention in recent years due to their fermentation properties. In this study, a kimchi-derived strain, Weissella confusa XU1 grew better on XOS than on glucose and xylose. The mechanism of XOS utilization by W. confusa XU1 was further explored. MethodsDifferential transcriptomes of W. confusa XU1, induced by XOS, glucose and xylose, were analyzed to identify the genetic loci involved in the uptake and catabolism of XOS. ResultsTranscriptome analysis reveals that several major facilitator superfamily (MFS) transporters and glycoside hydrolases were involved in the uptake and hydrolysis of XOS. In addition, glycolysis pathway and pentose phosphate pathway in W. confusa XU1 were enhanced when XOS were present, indicating that XOS were utilized more efficiently compared with other carbon sources. ConclusionThis study reveals a proposed XOS utilization mechanism in W. confusa XU1.