[Current advance in the topological structure and function of holin encoded by bacteriophage lambda--a review].

The holin-lysin two-step lysis system widely exists in double stranded DNA bacteriophages for the release of progeny bacteriophage from an infected bacterial cell at the final stage of phage infection. Lambda bacteriophage is a prototype for studying holin. The S gene in Lambda bacteriophage has a dual-start motif and encodes holin S105 and antiholin S107. Here, we reviewed the progress in topological structure of holin from Lambda bacteriophage and its formation of membrane lethal holes. We also discussed the potential of the holin in the control of bacterial infection.