The E. coli anti-sigma factor Rsd: studies on the specificity and regulation of its expression.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Among the seven different sigma factors in E. coli σ(70) has the highest concentration and affinity for the core RNA polymerase. The E. coli protein Rsd is regarded as an anti-sigma factor, inhibiting σ(70)-dependent transcription at the onset of stationary growth. Although binding of Rsd to σ(70) has been shown and numerous structural studies on Rsd have been performed the detailed mechanism of action is still unknown.

Methodology/principal findings

We have performed studies to unravel the function and regulation of Rsd expression in vitro and in vivo. Cross-linking and affinity binding revealed that Rsd is able to interact with σ(70), with the core enzyme of RNA polymerase and is able to form dimers in solution. Unexpectedly, we find that Rsd does also interact

SUBMITTER: Hofmann N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3089606 | biostudies-literature | 2011 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature