A series of IncQ-based reporter plasmids for use in a range of gram-negative genera

Many studies require expression analysis of the same gene/promoter across a range of bacterial genera. However, there is currently a lack of availability of reporters based on the broad-host-range IncQ replicon, which is compatible with a popular improved IncP transfer system that is self-transfer defective. We report IncQ lacZ reporter plasmids with features including (1) compatibility with IncP, IncW, and pBHR/pBBR replicons, (2) a variety of antibiotic markers (Sp-r, Sm-r, Km-r, Cm-r), (3) convenient mobilization via a novel self-transfer-defective IncP conjugation system, and (4) GenBank DNA sequences. Utility is demonstrated using three different promoters in different Gram-negative genera.