Facultative predation expands the ecological repertoire of Streptomyces

Streptomyces bacteria are well-known for their ability to synthesize natural products, particularly antibiotics, that are used in chemical defense against competing microbes. Here we show that Streptomyces are, in fact, predatory bacteria.

Upon encountering yeast cells, Streptomyces initiate the production of numerous enzymes that digest the cell wall and cell membrane. In addition, the interaction triggers the production of natural products that destabilize the yeast cell membrane. Collectively these actions lead to the death of yeast cells and release of cellular building blocks that Streptomyces can use as nutrients.