A Plasmid of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis ML8 Linked with Lactose Metabolism and Extracellular Proteinase

Three distinct plasmids, with approximate molecular weights of 1, 4.5, and 33 megadaltons, were found in Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis (L. lactis) ML8. Slow acid-producing mutants of L. lactis ML8, isolated by plasmid curing with acriflavine treatment, lacked the 33-megadalton plasmids. The plasmid-cured mutant showed lactose-negative (Lac) characteristics and the alteration of extracellular proteinase pattern. The possible involvement of extracellular proteinase with the 33-megadalton plasmid is highlighted in this research.