RNA-Seq of lag phase Phaeobacter inhibens bacteria

The length of the lag phase influences the success of bacteria in the environment. We conducted RNA-Seq during the lag phase of algal-associated P. inhibens DSM 17395 bacteria in the presence and absence of the methylated compound dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP). The analysis was motivated by the observation that DMSP and other N- and S-methylated compounds, which are abundantly produced by algae, trigger shorter lag times in bacteria.