Function
N-terminal fragment of the PhnE protein, part of a phosphonate usage operon that is cryptic in K12 strains. Growth of K12 strains on phosphonate can be observed when it is used as the sole phosphorus source after a 60 hour lag period, suggesting the operon is activated (PubMed:2155195). An intact PhnE in strain B is (AC A0A140NFA3). Part of the binding-protein-dependent transport system for phosphonates; probably responsible for the translocation of the substrate across the membrane (Probable).