What makes an Escherichia coli promoter sigma(S) dependent? Role of the -13/-14 nucleotide promoter positions and region 2.5 of sigma(S)

Role of the Hypothetical Protein BB0563 during Borrelia burgdorferi Infection in Animals

The alternative sigma factor RpoS in Borrelia burgdorferi, the etiological agent of Lyme disease, has long been postulated to regulate virulence-associated genes other than ospC and dbpA. Here, we demonstrate that bb0563, a gene encoding a hypothetical protein, is regulated by RpoS and contributes to the optimal infectivity of B. burgdorferi. When B. burgdorferi was exposed to environmental stimuli, bb0563 showed similar expression patterns as rpoS, ospC, and dbpA. Expression of bb0563 was significantly downregulated when rpoS was inactivated and was restored in the complemented strain. By using rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) and luciferase reporter assays, a functional promoter was identified in the regulatory region upstream of bb0563. Gene expression from this promoter was drastically decreased in the rpoS mutant. We next investigated the role of bb0563 during animal infection. By using quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), we found that bb0563 was highly expressed in mouse tissues during infection. We further created a bb0563-deficient mutant in a bioluminescent B. burgdorferi strain and examined infection dynamics using in vivo imaging. Relative to the parental and complemented strains, the mutant showed a delayed infection pattern and bacterial load was reduced. Another bb0563 deletion mutant was also created in the strain 297 background, and quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis revealed a significantly lower spirochetal burden in tissue samples collected from animals infected with the mutant. In addition, localization studies indicate that BB0563 is not exposed on the cell surface but is associated with outer membrane. Taken together, these results suggest that bb0563 is required for optimal infectivity of B. burgdorferi during experimental infection.

Tyrosine phosphorylation controlled poly(A) polymerase I activity regulates general stress response in bacteria

RNA 3'-end polyadenylation that marks transcripts for degradation is implicated in general stress response in Escherichia coli Yet, the mechanism and regulation of poly(A) polymerase I (PAPI) in stress response are obscure. We show that pcnB (that encodes PAPI)-null mutation widely stabilises stress response mRNAs and imparts cellular tolerance to multiple stresses, whereas PAPI ectopic expression renders cells stress-sensitive. We demonstrate that there is a substantial loss of PAPI activity on stress exposure that functionally phenocopies pcnB-null mutation stabilising target mRNAs. We identify PAPI tyrosine phosphorylation at the 202 residue (Y202) that is enormously enhanced on stress exposure. This phosphorylation inhibits PAPI polyadenylation activity under stress. Consequentially, PAPI phosphodeficient mutation (tyrosine 202 to phenylalanine, Y202F) fails to stimulate mRNA expression rendering cells stress-sensitive. Bacterial tyrosine kinase Wzc phosphorylates PAPI-Y202 residue, and that wzc-null mutation renders cells stress-sensitive. Accordingly, wzc-null mutation has no effect on stress sensitivity in the presence of pcnB-null or pcnB-Y202F mutation. We also establish that PAPI phosphorylation-dependent stress tolerance mechanism is distinct and operates downstream of the primary stress regulator RpoS.

Insertion of prpoD_rpoS fragment enhances expression of recombinant protein by dps auto-inducible promoter in Escherichia coli

BACKGROUND

Nowadays, recombinant therapeutic proteins have been widely produced and consumed. For the safety and effectiveness of the protein production, an auto-inducible expression vector is required to replace inducer interference, which is uneconomic and could be harmful. In this research, an auto-inducible expression plasmid, pCAD₂_sod (a pBR322 derivate plasmid), which was under dps (RpoS-dependent gene) promoter control, was modified to provide RpoS at earlier phase. Hence, accumulates more target protein and resulting a new plasmid, pCAD₂⁺_sod. pCAD₂_sod had been constructed to automatically induces the expression of recombinant superoxide dismutase (SOD) from Staphylococcus equorum (rMnSODSeq) in the stationary growth phase of Escherichia coli. This work aimed to obtain pCAD₂⁺_sod and determine the expression level of rMnSODSeq on mRNA and protein level.

METHOD AND RESULTS

A synthetic rpoS coding region under rpoD promoter control (prpoD_rpoS) was inserted to pCAD₂_sod and generated pCAD₂⁺_sod. The rMnSODSeq (24.3 kDa) produced from pCAD₂⁺_sod was ~ 1.5 fold higher at 37 °C and more intense at 43 °C compared to that from pCAD₂_sod, likewise shifted to earlier phase (after 1 h of incubation), as shown in the SDS-PAGE. The dismutase activity was also retained after zymography assay. The mRNA level from pCAD₂⁺_sod was determined by qPCR and gave quantification cycle (Cq) values of cDNA lowest among others. It made the relative quantification (RQ) of the mRNA expression towards rho reference gene were high.

CONCLUSIONS

The prpoD_rpoS insertion shifts and increases the rMnSODSeq production from stationary to exponential phase. The pCAD₂⁺_sod plasmid is potential for further recombinant protein productions.

Active bacterial modification of the host environment through RNA polymerase II inhibition

Unlike pathogens, which attack the host, commensal bacteria create a state of friendly coexistence. Here, we identified a mechanism of bacterial adaptation to the host niche, where they reside. Asymptomatic carrier strains were shown to inhibit RNA polymerase II (Pol II) in host cells by targeting Ser2 phosphorylation, a step required for productive mRNA elongation. Assisted by a rare, spontaneous loss-of-function mutant from a human carrier, the bacterial NlpD protein was identified as a Pol II inhibitor. After internalization by host cells, NlpD was shown to target constituents of the Pol II phosphorylation complex (RPB1 and PAF1C), attenuating host gene expression. Therapeutic efficacy of a recombinant NlpD protein was demonstrated in a urinary tract infection model, by reduced tissue pathology, accelerated bacterial clearance, and attenuated Pol II-dependent gene expression. The findings suggest an intriguing, evolutionarily conserved mechanism for bacterial modulation of host gene expression, with a remarkable therapeutic potential.

Gene Regulation and Transcriptomics

Borrelia (Borreliella) burgdorferi, along with closely related species, is the etiologic agent of Lyme disease. The spirochete subsists in an enzootic cycle that encompasses acquisition from a vertebrate host to a tick vector and transmission from a tick vector to a vertebrate host. To adapt to its environment and persist in each phase of its enzootic cycle, B. burgdorferi wields three systems to regulate the expression of genes: the RpoN-RpoS alternative sigma factor cascade, the Hk1/Rrp1 two-component system and its product c-di-GMP, and the stringent response mediated by Rel_Bbu and DksA. These regulatory systems respond to enzootic phase-specific signals and are controlled or fine- tuned by transcription factors, including BosR and BadR, as well as small RNAs, including DsrABb and Bb6S RNA. In addition, several other DNA-binding and RNA-binding proteins have been identified, although their functions have not all been defined. Global changes in gene expression revealed by high-throughput transcriptomic studies have elucidated various regulons, albeit technical obstacles have mostly limited this experimental approach to cultivated spirochetes. Regardless, we know that the spirochete, which carries a relatively small genome, regulates the expression of a considerable number of genes required for the transitions between the tick vector and the vertebrate host as well as the adaptation to each.

The Escherichia coli MarA protein regulates the ycgZ-ymgABC operon to inhibit biofilm formation

The Escherichia coli marRAB operon is a paradigm for chromosomally encoded antibiotic resistance. The operon exerts its effect via an encoded transcription factor called MarA that modulates efflux pump and porin expression. In this work, we show that MarA is also a regulator of biofilm formation. Control is mediated by binding of MarA to the intergenic region upstream of the ycgZ-ymgABC operon. The operon, known to influence the formation of curli fibres and colanic acid, is usually expressed during periods of starvation. Hence, the ycgZ-ymgABC promoter is recognised by σ³⁸ (RpoS)-associated RNA polymerase (RNAP). Surprisingly, MarA does not influence σ³⁸ -dependent transcription. Instead, MarA drives transcription by the housekeeping σ⁷⁰ -associated RNAP. The effects of MarA on ycgZ-ymgABC expression are coupled with biofilm formation by the rcsCDB phosphorelay system, with YcgZ, YmgA and YmgB forming a complex that directly interacts with the histidine kinase domain of RcsC.

The RpoS Gatekeeper in Borrelia burgdorferi: An Invariant Regulatory Scheme That Promotes Spirochete Persistence in Reservoir Hosts and Niche Diversity

Maintenance of Borrelia burgdorferi within its enzootic cycle requires a complex regulatory pathway involving the alternative σ factors RpoN and RpoS and two ancillary trans-acting factors, BosR and Rrp2. Activation of this pathway occurs within ticks during the nymphal blood meal when RpoS, the effector σ factor, transcribes genes required for tick transmission and mammalian infection. RpoS also exerts a 'gatekeeper' function by repressing σ⁷⁰-dependent tick phase genes (e.g., ospA, lp6.6). Herein, we undertook a broad examination of RpoS functionality throughout the enzootic cycle, beginning with modeling to confirm that this alternative σ factor is a 'genuine' RpoS homolog. Using a novel dual color reporter system, we established at the single spirochete level that ospA is expressed in nymphal midguts throughout transmission and is not downregulated until spirochetes have been transmitted to a naïve host. Although it is well established that rpoS/RpoS is expressed throughout infection, its requirement for persistent infection has not been demonstrated. Plasmid retention studies using a trans-complemented ΔrpoS mutant demonstrated that (i) RpoS is required for maximal fitness throughout the mammalian phase and (ii) RpoS represses tick phase genes until spirochetes are acquired by a naïve vector. By transposon mutant screening, we established that bba34/oppA5, the only OppA oligopeptide-binding protein controlled by RpoS, is a bona fide persistence gene. Lastly, comparison of the strain 297 and B31 RpoS DMC regulons identified two cohorts of RpoS-regulated genes. The first consists of highly conserved syntenic genes that are similarly regulated by RpoS in both strains and likely required for maintenance of B. burgdorferi sensu stricto strains in the wild. The second includes RpoS-regulated plasmid-encoded variable surface lipoproteins ospC, dbpA and members of the ospE/ospF/elp, mlp, revA, and Pfam54 paralogous gene families, all of which have evolved via inter- and intra-strain recombination. Thus, while the RpoN/RpoS pathway regulates a 'core' group of orthologous genes, diversity within RpoS regulons of different strains could be an important determinant of reservoir host range as well as spirochete virulence.

RbpA relaxes promoter selectivity of M. tuberculosis RNA polymerase

The transcriptional activator RbpA associates with Mycobacterium tuberculosis RNA polymerase (MtbRNAP) during transcription initiation, and stimulates formation of the MtbRNAP-promoter open complex (RPo). Here, we explored the influence of promoter motifs on RbpA-mediated activation of MtbRNAP containing the stress-response σ^B subunit. We show that both the ‘extended −10’ promoter motif (T_-17G_-16T_-15G_-14) and RbpA stabilized RPo and allowed promoter opening at suboptimal temperatures. Furthermore, in the presence of the T_-17G_-16T_-15G_-14 motif, RbpA was dispensable for RNA synthesis initiation, while exerting a stabilization effect on RPo. On the other hand, RbpA compensated for the lack of sequence-specific interactions of domains 3 and 4 of σ^B with the extended −10 and the −35 motifs, respectively. Mutations of the positively charged residues K73, K74 and R79 in RbpA basic linker (BL) had little effect on RPo formation, but affected MtbRNAP capacity for de novo transcription initiation. We propose that RbpA stimulates transcription by strengthening the non-specific interaction of the σ subunit with promoter DNA upstream of the −10 element, and by indirectly optimizing MtbRNAP interaction with initiation substrates. Consequently, RbpA renders MtbRNAP promiscuous in promoter selection, thus compensating for the weak conservation of the −35 motif in mycobacteria.

The novel EHEC gene asa overlaps the TEGT transporter gene in antisense and is regulated by NaCl and growth phase

Only a few overlapping gene pairs are known in the best-analyzed bacterial model organism Escherichia coli. Automatic annotation programs usually annotate only one out of six reading frames at a locus, allowing only small overlaps between protein-coding sequences. However, both RNAseq and RIBOseq show signals corresponding to non-trivially overlapping reading frames in antisense to annotated genes, which may constitute protein-coding genes. The transcription and translation of the novel 264 nt gene asa, which overlaps in antisense to a putative TEGT (Testis-Enhanced Gene Transfer) transporter gene is detected in pathogenic E. coli, but not in two apathogenic E. coli strains. The gene in E. coli O157:H7 (EHEC) was further analyzed. An overexpression phenotype was identified in two stress conditions, i.e. excess in salt or arginine. For this, EHEC overexpressing asa was grown competitively against EHEC with a translationally arrested asa mutant gene. RT-qPCR revealed conditional expression dependent on growth phase, sodium chloride, and arginine. Two potential promoters were computationally identified and experimentally verified by reporter gene expression and determination of the transcription start site. The protein Asa was verified by Western blot. Close homologues of asa have not been found in protein databases, but bioinformatic analyses showed that it may be membrane associated, having a largely disordered structure.

Spatial organization of different sigma factor activities and c-di-GMP signalling within the three-dimensional landscape of a bacterial biofilm

Bacterial biofilms are large aggregates of cells embedded in an extracellular matrix of self-produced polymers. In macrocolony biofilms of Escherichia coli, this matrix is generated in the upper biofilm layer only and shows a surprisingly complex supracellular architecture. Stratified matrix production follows the vertical nutrient gradient and requires the stationary phase σS (RpoS) subunit of RNA polymerase and the second messenger c-di-GMP. By visualizing global gene expression patterns with a newly designed fingerprint set of Gfp reporter fusions, our study reveals the spatial order of differential sigma factor activities, stringent control of ribosomal gene expression and c-di-GMP signalling in vertically cryosectioned macrocolony biofilms. Long-range physiological stratification shows a duplication of the growth-to-stationary phase pattern that integrates nutrient and oxygen gradients. In addition, distinct short-range heterogeneity occurs within specific biofilm strata and correlates with visually different zones of the refined matrix architecture. These results introduce a new conceptual framework for the control of biofilm formation and demonstrate that the intriguing extracellular matrix architecture, which determines the emergent physiological and biomechanical properties of biofilms, results from the spatial interplay of global gene regulation and microenvironmental conditions. Overall, mature bacterial macrocolony biofilms thus resemble the highly organized tissues of multicellular organisms.

Functional identification of the prnABCD operon and its regulation in Serratia plymuthica

The antibiotic pyrrolnitrin (PRN) is a tryptophan-derived secondary metabolite that plays an important role in the biocontrol of plant diseases due to its broad-spectrum of antimicrobial activities. The PRN biosynthetic gene cluster remains to be characterised in Serratia plymuthica, though it is highly conserved in PRN-producing bacteria. To better understand PRN biosynthesis and its regulation in Serratia, the prnABCD operon from S. plymuthica G3 was cloned, sequenced and expressed in Escherichia coli DH5α. Furthermore, an engineered strain prnind which is a conditional mutant of G3 prnABCD under the control of the Ptac promoter was constructed. This mutant was able to overproduce PRN with isopropylthiogalactoside (IPTG) induction by overexpressing prnABCD, whilst behaving as a conditional mutant of G3 prnABCD in the absence of IPTG. These results confirmed that prnABCD is responsible for PRN biosynthesis in strain G3. Further experiments involving lux-/dsRed-based promoter fusions, combined with site-directed mutagenesis of the putative σ^S extended -10 region in the prnA promoter, and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis extended our previous knowledge about G3, revealing that quorum sensing (QS) regulates PRN biosynthesis through cross talk with RpoS, which may directly activated prnABCD transcription. These findings suggest that PRN in S. plymuthica G3 is produced in a tightly controlled manner, and has diverse functions, such as modulation of cell motility, in addition to antimicrobial activities. Meanwhile, the construction of inducible mutants could be a powerful tool to improve PRN production, beyond its potential use for the investigation of the biological function of PRN.

The curli regulator CsgD mediates stationary phase counter-silencing of csgBA in Salmonella Typhimurium

Integration of horizontally acquired genes into transcriptional networks is essential for the regulated expression of virulence in bacterial pathogens. In Salmonella enterica, expression of such genes is repressed by the nucleoid-associated protein H-NS, which recognizes and binds to AT-rich DNA. H-NS-mediated silencing must be countered by other DNA-binding proteins to allow expression under appropriate conditions. Some genes that can be transcribed by RNA polymerase (RNAP) associated with the alternative sigma factor σ^S or the housekeeping sigma factor σ⁷⁰ in vitro appear to be preferentially transcribed by σ^S in the presence of H-NS, suggesting that σ^S may act as a counter-silencer. To determine whether σ^S directly counters H-NS-mediated silencing and whether co-regulation by H-NS accounts for the σ^S selectivity of certain promoters, we examined the csgBA operon, which is required for curli fimbriae expression and is known to be regulated by both H-NS and σ^S . Using genetics and in vitro biochemical analyses, we found that σ^S is not directly required for csgBA transcription, but rather up-regulates csgBA via an indirect upstream mechanism. Instead, the biofilm master regulator CsgD directly counter-silences the csgBA promoter by altering the DNA-protein complex structure to disrupt H-NS-mediated silencing in addition to directing the binding of RNAP.

Molecular Basis of Stationary Phase Survival and Applications

Stationary phase is the stage when growth ceases but cells remain metabolically active. Several physical and molecular changes take place during this stage that makes them interesting to explore. The characteristic proteins synthesized in the stationary phase are indispensable as they confer viability to the bacteria. Detailed knowledge of these proteins and the genes synthesizing them is required to understand the survival in such nutrient deprived conditions. The promoters, which drive the expression of these genes, are called stationary phase promoters. These promoters exhibit increased activity in the stationary phase and less or no activity in the exponential phase. The vectors constructed based on these promoters are ideal for large-scale protein production due to the absence of any external inducers. A number of recombinant protein production systems have been developed using these promoters. This review describes the stationary phase survival of bacteria, the promoters involved, their importance, regulation, and applications.

Characterization of a Minimal Type of Promoter Containing the -10 Element and a Guanine at the -14 or -13 Position in Mycobacteria

Three key promoter elements, i.e., -10, -35, and T_-15G_-14N, are recognized by the σ subunit of RNA polymerase. Among them, promoters with the -10 element and either -35 or T_-15G_-14N are known to initiate transcription efficiently, but recent systematic analyses have identified a large group of promoters in Mycobacterium tuberculosis that contain only a -10 consensus. How these promoters initiate transcription remains poorly understood. Here, we show that promoters containing the -10 element and an upstream G located at the -14 or -13 position can successfully initiate transcription in mycobacteria. Importantly, this new type of promoter is active in the absence of other promoter consensuses, suggesting that it is a minimal promoter type. Mutation of the upstream G in promoters decreased the efficiencies of their binding with RNA polymerase and their abilities to initiate transcription in both in vitro and in vivo analyses. A glutamic acid in σ region 3.0 is essential for recognizing G_-14 and G_-13 and is conserved in both principal and principal-like σ factors in mycobacteria, indicating that recognition of this minimal type of promoter might be a common mechanism for transcription initiation. Consistently, more than 70% of the identified promoters in M. tuberculosis contained G_-14 or G_-13 upstream of the conserved -10 element, and thousands of promoters in representative mycobacterial species have been predicted using the -10 consensus and G_-14 or G_-13 Altogether, our study presents a universal mechanism for transcription initiation from a minimal promoter in mycobacteria, which might also be applicable to other bacteria.IMPORTANCE In contrast to the detailed information for recognizing classic promoters in the model organism Escherichia coli, very little is known about how transcription is initiated in the human pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis In this study, we characterized a new type of promoter in mycobacteria that requires only a -10 consensus and an upstream G_-14 or G_-13 Residues important for recognizing the -10 element and the upstream G are conserved in σ^A and σ^B from mycobacterial species. According to such features, thousands of promoters in mycobacteria can be predicted using the -10 consensus and G_-14 or G_-13, which suggests that transcription from this new type of promoter might be widespread. Our findings provide insightful information for characterizing promoters in mycobacteria.

The feoABC Locus of Yersinia pestis Likely Has Two Promoters Causing Unique Iron Regulation

The FeoABC ferrous transporter is a wide-spread bacterial system. While the feoABC locus is regulated by a number of factors in the bacteria studied, we have previously found that regulation of feoABC in Yersinia pestis appears to be unique. None of the non-iron responsive transcriptional regulators that control expression of feoABC in other bacteria do so in Y. pestis. Another unique factor is the iron and Fur regulation of the Y. pestis feoABC locus occurs during microaerobic but not aerobic growth. Here we show that this unique iron-regulation is not due to a unique aspect of the Y. pestis Fur protein but to DNA sequences that regulate transcription. We have used truncations, alterations, and deletions of the feoA::lacZ reporter to assess the mechanism behind the failure of iron to repress transcription under aerobic conditions. These studies plus EMSAs and DNA sequence analysis have led to our proposal that the feoABC locus has two promoters: an upstream P1 promoter whose expression is relatively iron-independent but repressed under microaerobic conditions and the known downstream Fur-regulated P2 promoter. In addition, we have identified two regions that bind Y. pestis protein(s), although we have not identified these protein(s) or their function. Finally we used iron uptake assays to demonstrate that both FeoABC and YfeABCD transport ferrous iron in an energy-dependent manner and also use ferric iron as a substrate for uptake.

The Copper Efflux Regulator CueR Is Subject to ATP-Dependent Proteolysis in Escherichia coli

The trace element copper serves as cofactor for many enzymes but is toxic at elevated concentrations. In bacteria, the intracellular copper level is maintained by copper efflux systems including the Cue system controlled by the transcription factor CueR. CueR, a member of the MerR family, forms homodimers, and binds monovalent copper ions with high affinity. It activates transcription of the copper tolerance genes copA and cueO via a conserved DNA-distortion mechanism. The mechanism how CueR-induced transcription is turned off is not fully understood. Here, we report that Escherichia coli CueR is prone to proteolysis by the AAA+ proteases Lon, ClpXP, and ClpAP. Using a set of CueR variants, we show that CueR degradation is not altered by mutations affecting copper binding, dimerization or DNA binding of CueR, but requires an accessible C terminus. Except for a twofold stabilization shortly after a copper pulse, proteolysis of CueR is largely copper-independent. Our results suggest that ATP-dependent proteolysis contributes to copper homeostasis in E. coli by turnover of CueR, probably to allow steady monitoring of changes of the intracellular copper level and shut-off of CueR-dependent transcription.

A plasmid-encoded DsbA homologue is a growth-phase regulated thioredoxin

The Pseudomonas aeruginosa plasmid pUM505 contains in a pathogenicity island the dsbA2 gene, which encodes a product with similarity to DsbA protein disulfide isomerases, enzymes that catalyze formation and isomerization of disulfide bonds in protein cysteine residues. Using transcriptional fusions, it was found that dsbA2 gene promoter is activated during the stationary phase, suggesting that DsbA2 protein may be required for adaptive changes that occur during this stage of bacterial growth. Transfer of the pUM505 dsbA2 gene to a cadmium-sensitive P. aeruginosa PAO1-derivative affected in the chromosomal dsbA gene, restored cadmium resistance, suggesting a role of DsbA2 in protecting protein disulfide bonds. PAO1 dsbA2 transformants displayed increased sensitivity to intercalating agent mitomycin C, indicating that DsbA2 functions as a thioredoxin enzyme able to modify and activate toxicity of this compound. These results highlight the adaptive role of the pUM505 plasmid in its P. aeruginosa hosts.

The Impact of 18 Ancestral and Horizontally-Acquired Regulatory Proteins upon the Transcriptome and sRNA Landscape of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium

We know a great deal about the genes used by the model pathogen Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium to cause disease, but less about global gene regulation. New tools for studying transcripts at the single nucleotide level now offer an unparalleled opportunity to understand the bacterial transcriptome, and expression of the small RNAs (sRNA) and coding genes responsible for the establishment of infection. Here, we define the transcriptomes of 18 mutants lacking virulence-related global regulatory systems that modulate the expression of the SPI1 and SPI2 Type 3 secretion systems of S. Typhimurium strain 4/74. Using infection-relevant growth conditions, we identified a total of 1257 coding genes that are controlled by one or more regulatory system, including a sub-class of genes that reflect a new level of cross-talk between SPI1 and SPI2. We directly compared the roles played by the major transcriptional regulators in the expression of sRNAs, and discovered that the RpoS (σ³⁸) sigma factor modulates the expression of 23% of sRNAs, many more than other regulatory systems. The impact of the RNA chaperone Hfq upon the steady state levels of 280 sRNA transcripts is described, and we found 13 sRNAs that are co-regulated with SPI1 and SPI2 virulence genes. We report the first example of an sRNA, STnc1480, that is subject to silencing by H-NS and subsequent counter-silencing by PhoP and SlyA. The data for these 18 regulatory systems is now available to the bacterial research community in a user-friendly online resource, SalComRegulon.

The transcriptional networks and the functions of small regulatory RNAs of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium are being studied intensively. S. Typhimurium is becoming the ideal model pathogen for linking transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene regulation to bacterial virulence. Here, we systematically defined the regulatory factors responsible for controlling the expression of S. Typhimurium coding genes and sRNAs under infection-relevant growth conditions. As well as confirming published regulatory inputs for Salmonella pathogenicity islands, such as the positive role played by Fur in the expression of SPI1, we report, for the first time, the global impact of the FliZ, HilE and PhoB/R transcription factors and identify 124 sRNAs that belong to virulence-associated regulons. We found a subset of genes of known and unknown function that are regulated by both HilD and SsrB, highlighting the cross-talk mechanisms that control Salmonella virulence. An integrative analysis of the regulatory datasets revealed 5 coding genes of unknown function that may play novel roles in virulence. We hope that the SalComRegulon resource will be a dynamic database that will be constantly updated to inspire new hypothesis-driven experimentation, and will contribute to the construction of a comprehensive transcriptional network for S. Typhimurium.

Structures of E. coli σS-transcription initiation complexes provide new insights into polymerase mechanism

In bacteria, multiple σ factors compete to associate with the RNA polymerase (RNAP) core enzyme to form a holoenzyme that is required for promoter recognition. During transcription initiation RNAP remains associated with the upstream promoter DNA via sequence-specific interactions between the σ factor and the promoter DNA while moving downstream for RNA synthesis. As RNA polymerase repetitively adds nucleotides to the 3'-end of the RNA, a pyrophosphate ion is generated after each nucleotide incorporation. It is currently unknown how the release of pyrophosphate affects transcription. Here we report the crystal structures of E coli transcription initiation complexes (TICs) containing the stress-responsive σ(S) factor, a de novo synthesized RNA oligonucleotide, and a complete transcription bubble (σ(S)-TIC) at about 3.9-Å resolution. The structures show the 3D topology of the σ(S) factor and how it recognizes the promoter DNA, including likely specific interactions with the template-strand residues of the -10 element. In addition, σ(S)-TIC structures display a highly stressed pretranslocated initiation complex that traps a pyrophosphate at the active site that remains closed. The position of the pyrophosphate and the unusual phosphodiester linkage between the two terminal RNA residues suggest an unfinished nucleotide-addition reaction that is likely at equilibrium between nucleotide addition and pyrophosphorolysis. Although these σ(S)-TIC crystals are enzymatically active, they are slow in nucleotide addition, as suggested by an NTP soaking experiment. Pyrophosphate release completes the nucleotide addition reaction and is associated with extensive conformational changes around the secondary channel but causes neither active site opening nor transcript translocation.

Two different routes for double-stranded DNA transfer in natural and artificial transformation of Escherichia coli

Escherichia coli is naturally transformable, independent on the conserved DNA uptake machinery for single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) integration. The transfer of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) during natural transformation of E. coli is regulated by the alternative sigma factor σ(S). However, it remains mysterious how dsDNA transfers across the membranes and how σ(S) regulates natural transformation of E. coli. Here, I screened for σ(S)-regulated genes for dsDNA transfer in E. coli. The screening identified the σ(S)-regulated genes ydcS and ydcV, both locate on the putative ABC transporter ydcSTUV operon. Considering that ydcS and ydcV are predicted to encode a periplasmic protein and an inner membrane protein for substrate binding and translocation respectively, I propose that they may mediate dsDNA translocation across the inner membrane during natural transformation. In chemical transformation of E. coli, ydcS was but ydcV was not required. Thus, YdcV should not be the channel for dsDNA translocation in artificial transformation. Together with the previous observation that the outer membrane porin OmpA mediates dsDNA transfer across the outer membrane in chemical transformation but not in natural transformation, I conclude that dsDNA transfers across the two membranes through different routes in natural and artificial transformation of E. coli.

Bacterial Sigma Factors and Anti-Sigma Factors: Structure, Function and Distribution

Sigma factors are multi-domain subunits of bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP) that play critical roles in transcription initiation, including the recognition and opening of promoters as well as the initial steps in RNA synthesis. This review focuses on the structure and function of the major sigma-70 class that includes the housekeeping sigma factor (Group 1) that directs the bulk of transcription during active growth, and structurally-related alternative sigma factors (Groups 2-4) that control a wide variety of adaptive responses such as morphological development and the management of stress. A recurring theme in sigma factor control is their sequestration by anti-sigma factors that occlude their RNAP-binding determinants. Sigma factors are then released through a wide variety of mechanisms, often involving branched signal transduction pathways that allow the integration of distinct signals. Three major strategies for sigma release are discussed: regulated proteolysis, partner-switching, and direct sensing by the anti-sigma factor.

Characterization of the Escherichia coli σ(S) core regulon by Chromatin Immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq) analysis

In bacteria, selective promoter recognition by RNA polymerase is achieved by its association with σ factors, accessory subunits able to direct RNA polymerase “core enzyme” (E) to different promoter sequences. Using Chromatin Immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq), we searched for promoters bound by the σ^S-associated RNA polymerase form (Eσ^S) during transition from exponential to stationary phase. We identified 63 binding sites for Eσ^S overlapping known or putative promoters, often located upstream of genes (encoding either ORFs or non-coding RNAs) showing at least some degree of dependence on the σ^S-encoding rpoS gene. Eσ^S binding did not always correlate with an increase in transcription level, suggesting that, at some σ^S-dependent promoters, Eσ^S might remain poised in a pre-initiation state upon binding. A large fraction of Eσ^S-binding sites corresponded to promoters recognized by RNA polymerase associated with σ⁷⁰ or other σ factors, suggesting a considerable overlap in promoter recognition between different forms of RNA polymerase. In particular, Eσ^S appears to contribute significantly to transcription of genes encoding proteins involved in LPS biosynthesis and in cell surface composition. Finally, our results highlight a direct role of Eσ^S in the regulation of non coding RNAs, such as OmrA/B, RyeA/B and SibC.

Mycobacterium RbpA cooperates with the stress-response σB subunit of RNA polymerase in promoter DNA unwinding

RbpA, a transcriptional activator that is essential for Mycobacterium tuberculosis replication and survival during antibiotic treatment, binds to RNA polymerase (RNAP) in the absence of promoter DNA. It has been hypothesized that RbpA stimulates housekeeping gene expression by promoting assembly of the σ^A subunit with core RNAP. Here, using a purified in vitro transcription system of M. tuberculosis, we show that RbpA functions in a promoter-dependent manner as a companion of RNAP essential for promoter DNA unwinding and formation of the catalytically active open promoter complex (RP_o). Screening for RbpA activity using a full panel of the M. tuberculosis σ subunits demonstrated that RbpA targets σ^A and stress-response σ^B, but not the alternative σ subunits from the groups 3 and 4. In contrast to σ^A, the σ^B subunit activity displayed stringent dependency upon RbpA. These results suggest that RbpA-dependent control of RP_o formation provides a mechanism for tuning gene expression during the switch between different physiological states, and in the stress response.

sigmaS, a major player in the response to environmental stresses in Escherichia coli: role, regulation and mechanisms of promoter recognition

Bacterial cells often face hostile environmental conditions, to which they adapt by activation of stress responses. In Escherichia coli, environmental stresses resulting in significant reduction in growth rate stimulate the expression of the rpoS gene, encoding the alternative σ factor σ(S). The σ(S) protein associates with RNA polymerase, and through transcription of genes belonging to the rpoS regulon allows the activation of a 'general stress response', which protects the bacterial cell from harmful environmental conditions. Each step of this process is finely tuned in order to cater to the needs of the bacterial cell: in particular, selective promoter recognition by σ(S) is achieved through small deviations from a common consensus DNA sequence for both σ(S) and the housekeeping σ(70). Recognition of specific DNA elements by σ(S) is integrated with the effects of environmental signals and the interaction with regulatory proteins, in what represents a fascinating example of multifactorial regulation of gene expression. In this report, we discuss the function of the rpoS gene in the general stress response, and review the current knowledge on regulation of rpoS expression and on promoter recognition by σ(S).

Tuning the dials of Synthetic Biology

Synthetic Biology is the ‘Engineering of Biology’ – it aims to use a forward-engineering design cycle based on specifications, modelling, analysis, experimental implementation, testing and validation to modify natural or design new, synthetic biology systems so that they behave in a predictable fashion. Motivated by the need for truly plug-and-play synthetic biological components, we present a comprehensive review of ways in which the various parts of a biological system can be modified systematically. In particular, we review the list of ‘dials’ that are available to the designer and discuss how they can be modelled, tuned and implemented. The dials are categorized according to whether they operate at the global, transcriptional, translational or post-translational level and the resolution that they operate at. We end this review with a discussion on the relative advantages and disadvantages of some dials over others.

Block and boost DNA transfer: opposite roles of OmpA in natural and artificial transformation of Escherichia coli

Our previous work established that DNA is naturally transferable on agar plates through a new transformation system which is regulated by the stationary phase master regulator RpoS in Escherichia coli. In this transformation system, neither additional Ca²⁺ nor heat shock is required. Instead, transformation is stimulated by agar. The membrane protein OmpA, a gated pore permeable to ions and larger solutes, serves as a receptor for DNA transfer during bacteriophage infection and conjugation. However, it remains unknown how DNA transfers across membranes and whether OmpA is involved in transformation of E. coli. Here, we explored potential roles of OmpA in natural and chemical transformation of E. coli. We observed that ompA inactivation significantly improved natural transformation on agar plates, indicating that OmpA blocks DNA transfer. Transformation promotion by ompA inactivation also occurred on soft plates, indicating that OmpA blocks DNA transfer independent of agar. By contrast, compared with the wild-type strain, chemical transformation of the ompA mutant was lower, indicating that OmpA has a role in DNA transfer. Inactivation of ompA also reduced chemical transformation in solution containing less Ca²⁺ or with a shortened time for heat shock, suggesting that the promotion effect of OmpA on DNA transfer does not solely rely on Ca²⁺ or heat shock. We conclude that OmpA plays opposite roles in natural and chemical transformation: it blocks DNA uptake on agar plates but promotes DNA transfer in the liquid Ca²⁺ solution. Considering that no single factor was identified to reverse the function of OmpA, we propose that multiple factors may cooperate in the functional reversal of OmpA during natural and artificial transformation of E. coli. Finally, we observed that ompA transcription was not affected by the expression of RpoS, excluding the possibility that RpoS regulates DNA transfer by suppressing ompA transcription.

Activation of the RpoN-RpoS regulatory pathway during the enzootic life cycle of Borrelia burgdorferi

Background

The maintenance of Borrelia burgdorferi in its complex tick-mammalian enzootic life cycle is dependent on the organism's adaptation to its diverse niches. To this end, the RpoN-RpoS regulatory pathway in B. burgdorferi plays a central role in microbial survival and Lyme disease pathogenesis by up- or down-regulating the expression of a number of virulence-associated outer membrane lipoproteins in response to key environmental stimuli. Whereas a number of studies have reported on the expression of RpoS and its target genes, a more comprehensive understanding of when activation of the RpoN-RpoS pathway occurs, and when induction of the pathway is most relevant to specific stage(s) in the life cycle of B. burgdorferi, has been lacking.

Results

Herein, we examined the expression of rpoS and key lipoprotein genes regulated by RpoS, including ospC, ospA, and dbpA, throughout the entire tick-mammal infectious cycle of B. burgdorferi. Our data revealed that transcription of rpoS, ospC, and dbpA is highly induced in nymphal ticks when taking a blood meal. The RpoN-RpoS pathway remains active during the mammalian infection phase, as indicated by the sustained transcription of rpoS and dbpA in B. burgdorferi within mouse tissues following borrelial dissemination. However, dbpA transcription levels in fed larvae and intermolt larvae suggested that an additional layer of control likely is involved in the expression of the dbpBA operon. Our results also provide further evidence for the downregulation of ospA expression during mammalian infection, and the repression of ospC at later phases of mammalian infection by B. burgdorferi.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that the RpoN-RpoS regulatory pathway is initially activated during the tick transmission of B. burgdorferi to its mammalian host, and is sustained during mammalian infection.

RpoS regulates a novel type of plasmid DNA transfer in Escherichia coli

Spontaneous plasmid transformation of Escherichia coli is independent of the DNA uptake machinery for single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) entry. The one-hit kinetic pattern of plasmid transformation indicates that double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) enters E. coli cells on agar plates. However, DNA uptake and transformation regulation remain unclear in this new type of plasmid transformation. In this study, we developed our previous plasmid transformation system and induced competence at early stationary phase. Despite of inoculum size, the development of competence was determined by optical cell density. DNase I interruption experiment showed that DNA was taken up exponentially within the initial 2 minutes and most transforming DNA entered E. coli cells within 10 minutes on LB-agar plates. A half-order kinetics between recipient cells and transformants was identified when cell density was high on plates. To determine whether the stationary phase master regulator RpoS plays roles in plasmid transformation, we investigated the effects of inactivating and over-expressing its encoding gene rpoS on plasmid transformation. The inactivation of rpoS systematically reduced transformation frequency, while over-expressing rpoS increased plasmid transformation. Normally, RpoS recognizes promoters by its lysine 173 (K173). We found that the K173E mutation caused RpoS unable to promote plasmid transformation, further confirming a role of RpoS in regulating plasmid transformation. In classical transformation, DNA was transferred across membranes by DNA uptake proteins and integrated by DNA processing proteins. At stationary growth phase, RpoS regulates some genes encoding membrane/periplasmic proteins and DNA processing proteins. We quantified transcription of 22 of them and found that transcription of only 4 genes (osmC, yqjC, ygiW and ugpC) encoding membrane/periplasmic proteins showed significant differential expression when wildtype RpoS and RpoS^K173E mutant were expressed. Further investigation showed that inactivation of any one of these genes did not significantly reduce transformation, suggesting that RpoS may regulate plasmid transformation through other/multiple target genes.

The global repressor FliZ antagonizes gene expression by σS-containing RNA polymerase due to overlapping DNA binding specificity

FliZ, a global regulatory protein under the control of the flagellar master regulator FlhDC, was shown to antagonize σ(S)-dependent gene expression in Escherichia coli. Thereby it plays a pivotal role in the decision between alternative life-styles, i.e. FlhDC-controlled flagellum-based motility or σ(S)-dependent curli fimbriae-mediated adhesion and biofilm formation. Here, we show that FliZ is an abundant DNA-binding protein that inhibits gene expression mediated by σ(S) by recognizing operator sequences that resemble the -10 region of σ(S)-dependent promoters. FliZ does so with a structural element that is similar to region 3.0 of σ(S). Within this element, R108 in FliZ corresponds to K173 in σ(S), which contacts a conserved cytosine at the -13 promoter position that is specific for σ(S)-dependent promoters. R108 as well as C(-13) are also crucial for DNA binding by FliZ. However, while a number of FliZ binding sites correspond to known σ(S)-dependent promoters, promoter activity is not a prerequisite for FliZ binding and repressor function. Thus, we demonstrate that FliZ also feedback-controls flagellar gene expression by binding to a site in the flhDC control region that shows similarity only to a -10 element of a σ(S)-dependent promoter, but does not function as a promoter.

A conserved RpoS-dependent small RNA controls the synthesis of major porin OmpD

A remarkable feature of many small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) of Escherichia coli and Salmonella is their accumulation in the stationary phase of bacterial growth. Several stress response regulators and sigma factors have been reported to direct the transcription of stationary phase-specific sRNAs, but a widely conserved sRNA gene that is controlled by the major stationary phase and stress sigma factor, σ(S) (RpoS), has remained elusive. We have studied in Salmonella the conserved SdsR sRNA, previously known as RyeB, one of the most abundant stationary phase-specific sRNAs in E. coli. Alignments of the sdsR promoter region and genetic analysis strongly suggest that this sRNA gene is selectively transcribed by σ(S). We show that SdsR down-regulates the synthesis of the major Salmonella porin OmpD by Hfq-dependent base pairing; SdsR thus represents the fourth sRNA to regulate this major outer membrane porin. Similar to the InvR, MicC and RybB sRNAs, SdsR recognizes the ompD mRNA in the coding sequence, suggesting that this mRNA may be primarily targeted downstream of the start codon. The SdsR-binding site in ompD was localized by 3'-RACE, an experimental approach that promises to be of use in predicting other sRNA-target interactions in bacteria.

Stationary-Phase Gene Regulation in Escherichia coli §

In their stressful natural environments, bacteria often are in stationary phase and use their limited resources for maintenance and stress survival. Underlying this activity is the general stress response, which in Escherichia coli depends on the σS (RpoS) subunit of RNA polymerase. σS is closely related to the vegetative sigma factor σ70 (RpoD), and these two sigmas recognize similar but not identical promoter sequences. During the postexponential phase and entry into stationary phase, σS is induced by a fine-tuned combination of transcriptional, translational, and proteolytic control. In addition, regulatory "short-cuts" to high cellular σS levels, which mainly rely on the rapid inhibition of σS proteolysis, are triggered by sudden starvation for various nutrients and other stressful shift conditons. σS directly or indirectly activates more than 500 genes. Additional signal input is integrated by σS cooperating with various transcription factors in complex cascades and feedforward loops. Target gene products have stress-protective functions, redirect metabolism, affect cell envelope and cell shape, are involved in biofilm formation or pathogenesis, or can increased stationary phase and stress-induced mutagenesis. This review summarizes these diverse functions and the amazingly complex regulation of σS. At the molecular level, these processes are integrated with the partitioning of global transcription space by sigma factor competition for RNA polymerase core enzyme and signaling by nucleotide second messengers that include cAMP, (p)ppGpp, and c-di-GMP. Physiologically, σS is the key player in choosing between a lifestyle associated with postexponential growth based on nutrient scavenging and motility and a lifestyle focused on maintenance, strong stress resistance, and increased adhesiveness. Finally, research with other proteobacteria is beginning to reveal how evolution has further adapted function and regulation of σS to specific environmental niches.

Complex regulation of the global regulatory gene csrA: CsrA-mediated translational repression, transcription from five promoters by Eσ⁷⁰ and Eσ(S), and indirect transcriptional activation by CsrA

CsrA of Escherichia coli is an RNA-binding protein that globally regulates gene expression by repressing translation and/or altering the stability of target transcripts. Here we explored mechanisms that control csrA expression. Four CsrA binding sites were predicted upstream of the csrA initiation codon, one of which overlapped its Shine-Dalgarno sequence. Results from gel shift, footprint, toeprint and in vitro translation experiments indicate that CsrA binds to these four sites and represses its own translation by directly competing with 30S ribosomal subunit binding. Experiments were also performed to examine transcription of csrA. Primer extension, in vitro transcription and in vivo expression studies identified two σ⁷⁰-dependent (P2 and P5) and two σ(S) -dependent (P1 and P3) promoters that drive transcription of csrA. Additional primer extension studies identified a fifth csrA promoter (P4). Transcription from P3, which is indirectly activated by CsrA, is primarily responsible for increased csrA expression as cells transition from exponential to stationary-phase growth. Taken together, our results indicate that regulation of csrA expression occurs by a variety of mechanisms, including transcription from multiple promoters by two sigma factors, indirect activation of its own transcription, as well as direct repression of its own translation.

In vitro transcription profiling of the σS subunit of bacterial RNA polymerase: re-definition of the σS regulon and identification of σS-specific promoter sequence elements

Specific promoter recognition by bacterial RNA polymerase is mediated by σ subunits, which assemble with RNA polymerase core enzyme (E) during transcription initiation. However, σ⁷⁰ (the housekeeping σ subunit) and σ^S (an alternative σ subunit mostly active during slow growth) recognize almost identical promoter sequences, thus raising the question of how promoter selectivity is achieved in the bacterial cell. To identify novel sequence determinants for selective promoter recognition, we performed run-off/microarray (ROMA) experiments with RNA polymerase saturated either with σ⁷⁰ (Eσ⁷⁰) or with σ^S (Eσ^S) using the whole Escherichia coli genome as DNA template. We found that Eσ⁷⁰, in the absence of any additional transcription factor, preferentially transcribes genes associated with fast growth (e.g. ribosomal operons). In contrast, Eσ^S efficiently transcribes genes involved in stress responses, secondary metabolism as well as RNAs from intergenic regions with yet-unknown function. Promoter sequence comparison suggests that, in addition to different conservation of the −35 sequence and of the UP element, selective promoter recognition by either form of RNA polymerase can be affected by the A/T content in the −10/+1 region. Indeed, site-directed mutagenesis experiments confirmed that an A/T bias in the −10/+1 region could improve promoter recognition by Eσ^S.

Control of lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis by FtsH-mediated proteolysis of LpxC is conserved in enterobacteria but not in all gram-negative bacteria

Despite the essential function of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in Gram-negative bacteria, it is largely unknown how the exact amount of this molecule in the outer membrane is controlled. The first committed step in LPS biosynthesis is catalyzed by the LpxC enzyme. In Escherichia coli, the cellular concentration of LpxC is adjusted by the only essential protease in this organism, the membrane-anchored metalloprotease FtsH. Turnover of E. coli LpxC requires a length- and sequence-specific C-terminal degradation signal. LpxC proteins from Salmonella, Yersinia, and Vibrio species carry similar C-terminal ends and, like the E. coli enzyme, were degraded by FtsH. Although LpxC proteins are highly conserved in Gram-negative bacteria, there are striking differences in their C termini. The Aquifex aeolicus enzyme, which is devoid of the C-terminal extension, was stable in E. coli, whereas LpxC from the alphaproteobacteria Agrobacterium tumefaciens and Rhodobacter capsulatus was degraded by the Lon protease. Proteolysis of the A. tumefaciens protein required the C-terminal end of LpxC. High stability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa LpxC in E. coli and P. aeruginosa suggested that Pseudomonas uses a proteolysis-independent strategy to control its LPS content. The differences in LpxC turnover along with previously reported differences in susceptibility against antimicrobial compounds have important implications for the potential of LpxC as a drug target.

Unphosphorylated CsgD controls biofilm formation in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium

The transcriptional regulator CsgD of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) is a major regulator of biofilm formation required for the expression of csgBA, which encodes curli fimbriae, and adrA, coding for a diguanylate cyclase. CsgD is a response regulator with an N-terminal receiver domain with a conserved aspartate (D59) as a putative target site for phosphorylation and a C-terminal LuxR-like helix-turn-helix DNA binding motif, but the mechanisms of target gene activation remained unclear. To study the DNA-binding properties of CsgD we used electrophoretic mobility shift assays and DNase I footprint analysis to show that unphosphorylated CsgD-His(6) binds specifically to the csgBA and adrA promoter regions. In vitro transcription analysis revealed that CsgD-His(6) is crucial for the expression of csgBA and adrA. CsgD-His(6) is phosphorylated by acetyl phosphate in vitro, which decreases its DNA-binding properties. The functional impact of D59 in vivo was demonstrated as S. Typhimurium strains expressing modified CsgD protein (D59E and D59N) were dramatically reduced in biofilm formation due to decreased protein stability and DNA-binding properties in the case of D59E. In summary, our findings suggest that the response regulator CsgD functions in its unphosphorylated form under the conditions of biofilm formation investigated in this study.

The effect of mobile element IS10 on experimental regulatory evolution in Escherichia coli

Mobile genetic elements are widespread in bacteria, where they cause several kinds of mutations. Although their effects are on the whole negative, rare beneficial mutations caused by insertion sequence elements are frequently selected in some experimental evolution systems. For example, in earlier work, we found that strains of Escherichia coli that lack the sigma factor RpoS adapt to a high-osmolarity environment by the insertion of element IS10 into the promoter of the otsBA operon, rewiring expression from RpoS dependent to RpoS independent. We wished to determine how the presence of IS10 in the genome of this strain shaped the evolutionary outcome. IS10 could influence the outcome by causing mutations that confer adaptive phenotypes that cannot be achieved by strains without the element. Alternatively, IS10 could influence evolution by increasing the rate of appearance of certain classes of beneficial mutations even if they are no better than those that could be achieved by a strain without the element. We found that populations evolved from an IS10-free strain did not upregulate otsBA. An otsBA-lacZY fusion facilitated the recovery of a number of mutations that upregulate otsB without involving IS10 and found that two caused greater fitness increases than IS10 insertion, implying that evolution could have upregulated otsBA in the IS10-free strain. Finally, we demonstrate that there is epistasis between the IS10 insertion into the otsBA promoter and the other adaptive mutations, implying that introduction of IS10 into the otsBA promoter may alter the trajectory of adaptive evolution. We conclude that IS10 exerts its effect not by creating adaptive phenotypes that could not otherwise occur but by increasing the rate of appearance of certain adaptive mutations.

Analysis of the dbpBA upstream regulatory region controlled by RpoS in Borrelia burgdorferi

Decorin-binding proteins B and A (DbpB and DbpA) are thought to play important roles in Borrelia burgdorferi pathogenesis by serving as adhesins for the extracellular matrix. It has been established that the expression of DbpBA is governed by the Rrp2-RpoN-RpoS regulatory pathway. However, the precise mechanism underlying the control of DbpBA expression has been unclear. In particular, it has been unknown whether RpoS influences DbpBA expression directly or indirectly (through an additional regulatory molecule[s]). Here, employing a wild-type B. burgdorferi strain and a dbpBA-deficient mutant, we analyzed the 5' genetic elements of the dbpBA operon using deletion analysis, coupled with luciferase reporter assays, quantitative reverse transcription PCR, and immunoblot analyses. A minimal promoter, encompassed within 70 bp upstream of the ATG start codon of dbpBA, was identified and found to be necessary and sufficient to initiate dbpBA transcription. The minimal dbpBA promoter was responsive to environmental stimuli such as temperature, pH, and whole blood. Two in silico-identified inverted repeat elements were not involved in the response of dbpBA expression to in vitro stimulation by environmental factors. The expression of dbpBA from the minimal promoter was abolished when rpoS was inactivated. In addition, the targeted mutagenesis of a C at position -14 within the extended -10 region of dbpBA, which has been postulated to be strategic for Esigma(S) binding in Escherichia coli, abolished dbpBA expression in B. burgdorferi. These combined data suggest that the Rrp2-RpoN-RpoS pathway controls dbpBA expression by the direct binding of RpoS to an RpoS-dependent promoter. However, given that there remains a distinct difference between the expression of DbpBA and other genes under the direct control of RpoS (e.g., OspC), our findings do not preclude the existence of another layer of gene regulation that may contribute to the modulation of DbpBA expression via an as-yet unknown mechanism.

Transcription analysis of central metabolism genes in Escherichia coli. Possible roles of sigma38 in their expression, as a response to carbon limitation

The phosphoenolpyruvate: carbohydrate transferase system (PTS) transports glucose in Escherichia coli. Previous work demonstrated that strains lacking PTS, such as PB11, grow slow on glucose. PB11 has a reduced expression of glycolytic, and upregulates poxB and acs genes as compared to the parental strain JM101, when growing on glucose. The products of the latter genes are involved in the production of AcetylCoA. Inactivation of rpoS that codes for the RNA polymerase σ³⁸ subunit, reduces further (50%) growth of PB11, indicating that σ³⁸ plays a central role in the expression of central metabolism genes in slowly growing cells. In fact, transcription levels of glycolytic genes is reduced in strain PB11rpoS⁻ as compared to PB11. In this report we studied the role of σ⁷⁰ and σ³⁸ in the expression of the complete glycolytic pathway and poxB and acs genes in certain PTS⁻ strains and their rpoS⁻ derivatives. We determined the transcription start sites (TSSs) and the corresponding promoters, in strains JM101, PB11, its derivative PB12 that recovered its growth capacity, and in their rpoS⁻ derivatives, by 5′RACE and pyrosequencing. In all these genes the presence of sequences resembling σ³⁸ recognition sites allowed the proposition that they could be transcribed by both sigma factors, from overlapping putative promoters that initiate transcription at the same site. Fourteen new TSSs were identified in seventeen genes. Besides, more than 30 putative promoters were proposed and we confirmed ten previously reported. In vitro transcription experiments support the functionality of putative dual promoters. Alternatives that could also explain lower transcription levels of the rpoS⁻ derivatives are discussed. We propose that the presence if real, of both σ⁷⁰ and σ³⁸ dependent promoters in all glycolytic genes and operons could allow a differential transcription of these central metabolism genes by both sigma subunits as an adaptation response to carbon limitation.

Compensatory evolution of gene regulation in response to stress by Escherichia coli lacking RpoS

The RpoS sigma factor protein of Escherichia coli RNA polymerase is the master transcriptional regulator of physiological responses to a variety of stresses. This stress response comes at the expense of scavenging for scarce resources, causing a trade-off between stress tolerance and nutrient acquisition. This trade-off favors non-functional rpoS alleles in nutrient-poor environments. We used experimental evolution to explore how natural selection modifies the regulatory network of strains lacking RpoS when they evolve in an osmotically stressful environment. We found that strains lacking RpoS adapt less variably, in terms of both fitness increase and changes in patterns of transcription, than strains with functional RpoS. This phenotypic uniformity was caused by the same adaptive mutation in every independent population: the insertion of IS10 into the promoter of the otsBA operon. OtsA and OtsB are required to synthesize the osmoprotectant trehalose, and transcription of otsBA requires RpoS in the wild-type genetic background. The evolved IS10 insertion rewires expression of otsBA from RpoS-dependent to RpoS-independent, allowing for partial restoration of wild-type response to osmotic stress. Our results show that the regulatory networks of bacteria can evolve new structures in ways that are both rapid and repeatable.

Escherichia coli, like all bacteria, expresses distinct sets of genes in response to different environmental challenges. One protein, RpoS, is a central part of the cellular response that brings about these changes in gene expression. Despite the importance of this protein in response to some kinds of stresses, strains that lack a functional RpoS protein are found at appreciable frequency in nature. We sought to understand how these strains evolve to compensate for the lack of RpoS function. We evolved E. coli with and without RpoS in a stressful environment in the lab, and found that strains without RpoS evolved in a uniform and repeatable manner. This was true in terms of how much their fitness increased or in terms of how genes were expressed to compensate for the lack of RpoS. These patterns had a simple cause. A mobile genetic element moved position in the genome, allowing for the transcription of a pair of key genes. The same element moved to the same place in each of our replicate experiments, causing the repeatable change in fitness and gene expression. We conclude that E. coli can rapidly compensate for the lack of RpoS by evolving novel mechanisms to control patterns of gene expression.

Mutational analysis of Escherichia coli sigma28 and its target promoters reveals recognition of a composite -10 region, comprised of an 'extended -10' motif and a core -10 element

Sigma28 controls the expression of flagella-related genes and is the most widely distributed alternative sigma factor, present in motile Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The distinguishing feature of sigma28 promoters is a long -10 region (GCCGATAA). Despite the fact that the upstream GC is highly conserved, previous studies have not indicated a functional role for this motif. Here we examine the functional relevance of the GCCG motif and determine which residues in sigma28 participate in its recognition. We find that the GCCG motif is a functionally important composite element. The upstream GC constitutes an extended -10 motif and is recognized by R91, a residue in Domain 3 of sigma28. The downstream CG is the upstream edge of -10 region of the promoter; two residues in Region 2.4, D81 and R84, participate in its recognition. Consistent with their role in base-specific recognition of the promoter, R91, D81 and D84 are universally conserved in sigma28 orthologues. Sigma28 is the second Group 3 sigma shown to use an extended -10 region in promoter recognition, raising the possibility that other Group 3 sigmas will do so as well.

Dissection of recognition determinants of Escherichia coli sigma32 suggests a composite -10 region with an 'extended -10' motif and a core -10 element

Sigma32 controls expression of heat shock genes in Escherichia coli and is widely distributed in proteobacteria. The distinguishing feature of sigma32 promoters is a long -10 region (CCCCATNT) whose tetra-C motif is important for promoter activity. Using alanine-scanning mutagenesis of sigma32 and in vivo and in vitro assays, we identified promoter recognition determinants of this motif. The most downstream C (-13) is part of the -10 motif; our work confirms and extends recognition determinants of -13C. Most importantly, our work suggests that the two upstream Cs (-16, -15) constitute an 'extended -10' recognition motif that is recognized by K130, a residue universally conserved in beta- and gamma-proteobacteria. This residue is located in the alpha-helix of sigmaDomain 3 that mediates recognition of the extended -10 promoter motif in other sigmas. K130 is not conserved in alpha- and delta-/epsilon-proteobacteria and we found that sigma32 from the alpha-proteobacterium Caulobacter crescentus does not need the extended -10 motif for high promoter activity. This result supports the idea that K130 mediates extended -10 recognition. Sigma32 is the first Group 3 sigma shown to use the 'extended -10' recognition motif.

Stochasticity and bistability in horizontal transfer control of a genomic island in Pseudomonas

Genomic islands (GEI) comprise a recently recognized large family of potentially mobile DNA elements and play an important role in the rapid differentiation and adaptation of bacteria. Most importantly, GEIs have been implicated in the acquisition of virulence factors, antibiotic resistances or toxic compound metabolism. Despite detailed information on coding capacities of GEIs, little is known about the regulatory decisions in individual cells controlling GEI transfer. Here, we show how self-transfer of ICEclc, a GEI in Pseudomonas knackmussii B13 is controlled by a series of stochastic processes, the result of which is that only a few percent of cells in a population will excise ICEclc and launch transfer. Stochastic processes have been implicated before in producing bistable phenotypic transitions, such as sporulation and competence development, but never before in horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Bistability is instigated during stationary phase at the level of expression of an activator protein InrR that lays encoded on ICEclc, and then faithfully propagated to a bistable expression of the IntB13 integrase, the enzyme responsible for excision and integration of the ICEclc. Our results demonstrate how GEI of a very widespread family are likely to control their transfer rates. Furthermore, they help to explain why HGT is typically confined to few members within a population of cells. The finding that, despite apparent stochasticity, HGT rates can be modulated by external environmental conditions provides an explanation as to why selective conditions can promote DNA exchange.

The two-component network and the general stress sigma factor RpoS (sigma S) in Escherichia coli

The general stress sigma factor RpoS (sigma s) is induced during entry into stationary phase and in response to multiple stress conditions. RpoS is regulated at the levels of transcription, translation, proteolysis and protein activity. A key factor in RpoS control is the two-component response regulator RssB, which acts as a direct recognition and targeting factor for ClpXP-mediated RpoS proteolysis. A major, but not the only phosphodonor for RssB is the complex histidine sensor kinase ArcB. ArcB coordinates RpoS proteolysis with rpoS transcription by also phosphorylating the response regulator ArcA, which besides controlling a large regulon, also acts as a transcriptional repressor for rpoS. ArcB activity depends on the redox state of the respiratory chain, which links RpoS control to the balance between energy supply and available respiratory electron acceptor. In addition, the BarA/UvrY and Rcs phosphorelay systems can activate rpoS transcription and translation, respectively. These systems are involved in the control of motility, biofilm formation and/or virulence, suggesting that further studying a potential role of RpoS in these physiological functions may be rewarding.

Increasing the secretion ability of the kil gene for recombinant proteins in Escherichia coli by using a strong stationary-phase promoter

By using a beta-glucanase from Bacillus as a model protein, we investigated whether the secretion competence based on the action of the kil gene can be improved using stronger promoters for the expression of the kil gene. Since the production of extracellular target proteins also depends on the promoter strengths of the target gene, we constructed four expression vectors with all possible combinations of a weak and a strong stationary-phase promoter for the kil gene, and a weak and a strong constitutive promoter, respectively, for the beta-glucanase gene. The results of batch fermentations showed that the use of stronger promoters generally decreased the cell density. However, a drastic increase of productivity of the cells to produce and secrete beta-glucanase resulted in a significantly higher activity of extracellular beta-glucanase. The yield of extracellular beta-glucanase can be increased (to 168 %) by using a strong promoter for the beta-glucanase alone. However, the increase was much higher when the weak promoter of the kil gene was replaced by a strong stationary-phase promoter (to 221 %). An even higher yield of extracellular beta-glucanase was reached when beta-glucanase was expressed by a strong promoter in addition indicating a combinatorial effect. This shows that the extracellular production of a recombinant target gene can be optimized by tuning the promoter strengths of components, the kil gene and the target gene.