The Peptide Chain Release Factor Methyltransferase PrmC Influences the PA14 Endo- and Exometabolome.

is one of the most important nosocomial pathogens and understanding its virulence is the key to effective control of infections. The regulatory network governing virulence factor production in is exceptionally complex. Previous studies have shown that the peptide chain release factor methyltransferase PrmC plays an important role in bacterial pathogenicity. Yet, the underlying molecular mechanism is incompletely understood. In this study, we used untargeted liquid and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry to characterise the metabolome of a defective PA14 strain in comparison with the corresponding strain complemented with . The comprehensive metabolomics data provided new insight into the influence of on virulence and metabolism. deficiency had broad effects on the endo- and exometabolome of PA14, with a marked decrease of the levels of aromatic compounds accompanied by reduced precursor supply from the shikimate pathway. Furthermore, a pronounced decrease of phenazine production was observed as well as lower abundance of alkylquinolones. Unexpectedly, the metabolomics data showed no -dependent effect on rhamnolipid production and an increase in pyochelin levels. A putative virulence biomarker identified in a previous study was significantly less abundant in the deficient strain.