Physiological Functions of Bacterial “Multidrug” Efflux Pumps

Bacterial multidrug efflux pumps have come to prominence in human and veterinary pathogenesis because they help bacteria protect themselves against the antimicrobials used overcome their infections. However, it is increasingly realized that many, probably most, such physiological roles are distinct from protection of administered by humans. Here we undertake a broad survey proteins involved, allied detailed examples evolution, energetics, structures, chemical recognition, molecular mechanisms, together with experimental strategies enable rapid economical progress understanding true roles. Once these established, knowledge can be harnessed design more effective drugs, improve existing microbial production drugs for clinical practice feedstocks commercial exploitation, even develop sustainable biological processes avoid, example, utilization petroleum.