GerPE is required for the formation of functionally normal spores. It could be involved in the establishment of a normal spore coat structure and (or) permeability, which allows the access of germinants to their receptor [1].

1: 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