DNA sequence repeats identify numerous Type I restriction-modification systems that are potential epigenetic regulators controlling phase-variable regulons; phasevarions.

ABSTRACT: Over recent years several examples of randomly switching methyltransferases, associated with Type III restriction-modification (R-M) systems, have been described in pathogenic bacteria. In every case examined, changes in simple DNA sequence repeats result in variable methyltransferase expression and result in global changes in gene expression, and differentiation of the bacterial cell into distinct phenotypes. These epigenetic regulatory systems are called phasevarions, phase-variable regulons, and are widespread in bacteria, with 17.4% of Type III R-M system containing simple DNA sequence repeats. A distinct, recombination-driven random switching system has also been described in Streptococci in Type I R-M systems that also regulate gene expression. Here, we interrogate the most extensive

SUBMITTER: Atack JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7383803 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature