Abstract
The hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus can utilize different carbohydrates, such as starch, maltose and trehalose. Uptake of α-glucosides is mediated by two different, binding protein-dependent, ATP-binding cassette (ABC)-type transport systems. The maltose transporter also transports trehalose, whereas the maltodextrin transport system mediates the uptake of maltotriose and higher malto-oligosaccharides, but not maltose. Both transport systems are induced during growth on their respective substrates.