Comparison of the action of colicins E1 and K on Escherichia coli with the effects of abortive infection by virulent bacteriophages.

Abortive infection of certain strains of Escherichia coli or Shigella dysenteriae with phages of the T-even group or with phage T5 resembles the action of colicin E1 or K on sensitive bacteria, especially in the effects on biosynthetic processes. Tests on transport systems and on adenosine triphosphate levels suggest, however, that different mechanisms are involved in the two cases. Abortive infection appears to cause damage to the permeability barrier of the cell, whereas the colicins interfere more directly with the energy metabolism of the bacteria.