Optimality and evolution of transcriptionally regulated gene expression.

ABSTRACT:

Background

How transcriptionally regulated gene expression evolves under natural selection is an open question. The cost and benefit of gene expression are the driving factors. While the former can be determined by gratuitous induction, the latter is difficult to measure directly.

Results

We addressed this problem by decoupling the regulatory and metabolic function of the Escherichia coli lac system, using an inducer that cannot be metabolized and a carbon source that does not induce. Growth rate measurements directly identified the induced expression level that maximizes the metabolism benefits minus the protein production costs, without relying on models. Using these results, we established a controlled mismatch between sensing and metabolism, resulting in sub-optimal tran

SUBMITTER: Poelwijk FJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3182923 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature