Activation of σ20-dependent recombination and horizontal gene transfer in Mycoplasma genitalium.

ABSTRACT: In the human pathogen Mycoplasma genitalium, homologous recombination is under the control of σ20, an alternative sigma factor that boosts the generation of genetic and antigenic diversity in the population. Under laboratory growth conditions, σ20 activation is rare and the factors governing its intermittent activity are unknown. Two σ20-regulated genes, rrlA and rrlB, showed to be important for recombination of homologous DNA sequences in this bacterium. Herein, we demonstrate that rrlA and rrlB code for two small proteins that participate in a feed-forward loop essential for σ20 function. In addition, we identify novel genes regulated by σ20 and show that several non-coding regions, which function as a reservoir for the generation of antigenic diversity, are also activated by this altern

SUBMITTER: Torres-Puig S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6105099 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature