Nonlinear regulatory dynamics of bacterial restriction-modification systems modulates horizontal gene transfer susceptibility.

ABSTRACT: Type II restriction-modification (R-M) systems play a pivotal role in bacterial defense against invading DNA, influencing the spread of pathogenic traits. These systems often involve coordinated expression of a regulatory protein (C) with restriction (R) enzymes, employing complex feedback loops for regulation. Recent studies highlight the crucial balance between R and M enzymes in controlling horizontal gene transfer (HGT). This manuscript introduces a mathematical model reflecting R-M system dynamics, informed by biophysical evidence, to minimize reliance on arbitrary parameters. Our analysis clarifies the observed variations in M-to-R ratios, emphasizing the regulatory role of the C protein. We analytically derived a stability diagram for C-regulated R-M systems, offering a more straigh

SUBMITTER: Djordjevic M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11736437 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature