Whole-genome expression profiling of Thermotoga maritima in response to growth on sugars in a chemostat

To provide data necessary to study catabolite-linked transcriptional networks in Thermotoga maritima, we used full-genome DNA microarray analysis of global transcriptional responses to growth on glucose, lactose, and maltose in a chemostat. A much larger number of genes changed expression in cells grown on lactose than on maltose, each relative to genes expressed in cells grown on glucose. Genes encoding putative oligopeptide transporters were often coregulated with adjacent glycosidase-encoding genes. Genes encoding enzymes catalyzing NADH oxidation were up-regulated on both lactose and maltose. Genes involved in iron and sulfur metabolism were differentially expressed in response to lactose. These data help define the sets of coregulated genes and suggest possible functions for their encoded products.