Abstract

Exponential phase cells of Pseudomonas putida KT2442 rapidly lost viability when incubated at 0°C without entering a viable but non-culturable state. The majority of dead cells retained their cellular integrity and contained DNA. However, their cellular rRNA content was substantially reduced. By employing a luciferase-marked derivative of P. putida KT2442 in combination with a highly sensitive low-light imaging system, live and dead cells could be distinguished.

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