GerPC is required for the formation of functionally normal spores. The gerP locus encodes a number of proteins which are thought to be involved in the establishment of normal spore coat structure and/or permeability, which allows the access of germinants to their receptor [2].

1: The genetics of bacterial spore germination. Moir A, Smith DA; Annu Rev Microbiol. 1990;44:531-553. PMID:2252393

2: Mutations in the gerP locus of Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus cereus affect access of germinants to their targets in spores. Behravan J, Chirakkal H, Masson A, Moir A; J Bacteriol. 2000;182:1987-1994. PMID:10715007