Insights into the susceptibility of Pseudomonas putida to industrially relevant aromatic hydrocarbons that it can synthesize from sugars

Abstract Pseudomonas putida DOT-T1E is a highly solvent tolerant strain for which many genetic tools have been developed. The strain represents a promising candidate host for the synthesis of aromatic compounds—opening a path towards a green alternative to petrol-derived chemicals. We have engineered this strain to produce phenylalanine, which can then be used as a raw material for the synthesis of styrene via trans -cinnamic acid. To understand the response of this strain to the bioproducts of interest, we have analyzed the in-depth physiological and genetic response of the strain to these compounds. We found that in response to the exposure to the toxic compounds that the strain can produce, the cell launches a multifactorial response to enhance membrane impermeabilization. This process occurs via the activation of a cis to trans isomerase that converts cis unsaturated fatty acids to their corresponding trans isomers. In addition, the bacterial cells initiate a stress response program that involves the synthesis of a number of chaperones and ROS removing enzymes, such as peroxidases and superoxide dismutases. The strain also responds by enhancing the metabolism of glucose through the specific induction of the glucose phosphorylative pathway, Entner-Doudoroff enzymes, Krebs cycle enzymes and Nuo. In step with these changes, the cells induce two efflux pumps to extrude the toxic chemicals. Through analyzing a wide collection of efflux pump mutants, we found that the most relevant pump is TtgGHI, which is controlled by the TtgV regulator. Graphical Abstract