In the framework of the international project aimed at sequencing the Bacillus subtilis (Bs) genome, a 35.7-kb chromosome segment around the pel locus has been cloned and sequenced. This region (35,745 bp; 70 degrees-73 degrees of the genetic map) contains two partial and 38 complete orfs. A homology search for the products deduced from the 39 orfs revealed that 26 of them exhibit significant similarity to known proteins, e.g. germination proteins, sodium-alanine symporter, PTS system, methionine amino peptidase, 2-oxoglutarate/malate translocater, pectate lyase, general stress response protein, RNA helicase, iron uptake and two-component systems.