Loss of compartmentalization of σ(E) activity need not prevent formation of spores by Bacillus subtilis.

ABSTRACT: Compartmentalization of the activities of RNA polymerase sigma factors is a hallmark of formation of spores by Bacillus subtilis. It is initiated soon after the asymmetrically located sporulation division takes place with the activation of σ(F) in the smaller cell, the prespore. σ(F) then directs a signal via the membrane protease SpoIIGA to activate σ(E) in the larger mother cell by processing of pro-σ(E). Here, we show that σ(E) can be activated in the prespore with little effect on sporulation efficiency, implying that complete compartmentalization of σ(E) activity is not essential for spore formation. σ(E) activity in the prespore can be obtained by inducing transcription in the prespore of spoIIGA or of sigE*, which encodes a constitutively active form of σ(E), but not of spoIIGB, whi

SUBMITTER: Chary VK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2953694 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature