As more type VI secretion systems are identified and the secreted effectors are studied, it is becoming clear that they have an important role in mediating interbacterial interactions. Although the focus has mainly been on antagonistic interactions, type VI secretion systems may have physiological roles that extend beyond antagonism. Mougous and colleagues review the microbial ecology of type VI secretion, including a potential role in modulating microbial community dynamics.
- Alistair B. Russell
- S. Brook Peterson
- Joseph D. Mougous
