The DNA-Binding Protein from Starved Cells (Dps) Utilizes Dual Functions To Defend Cells against Multiple Stresses.

ABSTRACT:

Unlabelled

Bacteria deficient in the DNA-binding protein from starved cells (Dps) are viable under controlled conditions but show dramatically increased mortality rates when exposed to any of a wide range of stresses, including starvation, oxidative stress, metal toxicity, or thermal stress. It remains unclear whether the protective action of Dps against specific stresses derives from its DNA-binding activity, which may exclude destructive agents from the chromosomal region, or its ferroxidase activity, which neutralizes and sequesters potentially damaging chemical species. To resolve this question, we have identified the critical residues of Escherichia coli Dps that bind to DNA and modulate iron oxidation. We uncoupled the biochemical activities of Dps, creating Dps variants and

SUBMITTER: Karas VO 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4560292 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature