Homologous recombination between plasmid and chromosomal DNA in Bacillus subtilis requires approximately 70 bp of homology.

To determine the minimal DNA sequence homology required for recombination in Bacillus subtilis, we developed a system capable of distinguishing between homologous and illegitimate recombination events during plasmid integration into the chromosome. In this system the recombination frequencies were measured between ts pE194 derivatives carrying segments of the chromosomal beta-gluconase gene (bglS) of various lengths and the bacterial chromosome, using selection for erythromycin resistance at the non-permissive temperature. Homologous recombination events, resulting in disruption of the bglS gene, were easily detected by a colorimetric assay for beta-gluconase activity. A linear dependence of recombination frequency on homology length was observed over an interval of 77 bp. It was found that approximately 70 bp of homology is required for detectable homologous recombination. Homologous recombination was not detected when only 25 bp of homology between plasmid and chromosome were provided. The data indicate that homology requirements for recombination in B. subtilis differ from those in Escherichia coli.