This paper explores how certain bacterial proteins called functional amyloids, specifically curli fibers, provide a robust defense mechanism against predatory bacteria like Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus and even phages. The research identifies that curli fibers act as a physical barrier or "suit of armor", preventing predators from accessing and infecting bacterial cells. The study demonstrates that this curli-mediated defense is widespread among E. coli strains and that other evolutionarily distinct functional amyloid systems, such as those found in Pseudomonas, offer similar protection. This work highlights the diverse and complex strategies bacteria employ to protect themselves from microbial threats, suggesting functional amyloids play a significant role in bacterial immune responses.

References:

• Ledvina H E, Sayegh R, Carale R O, et al. Functional amyloid proteins confer defence against predatory bacteria[J]. Nature, 2025: 1-8.