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Sequestration of a dual function DNA-binding protein by Vibrio cholerae CRP
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Sequestration of a dual function DNA-binding protein by Vibrio cholerae CRP

Jacob A. Gibson, Michael J. Gebhardt, Renato E. R. S. Santos, Simon L. Dove and Paula I. Watnick
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences - PNAS, Vol.119(46), e2210115119
11/15/2022
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2210115119
PMCID: PMC9674212
PMID: 36343262
url
https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2210115119View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Although the mechanism by which the cyclic AMP receptor protein (CRP) regulates global gene transcription has been intensively studied for decades, new discoveries remain to be made. Here, we report that, during rapid growth, CRP associates with both the well-conserved, dual-function DNA-binding protein peptidase A (PepA) and the cell membrane. These interactions are not present under nutrient-limited growth conditions, due to post-translational modification of three lysines on a single face of CRP. Although coincident DNA binding is rare, dissociation from CRP results in increased PepA occupancy at many chromosomal binding sites and differential regulation of hundreds of genes, including several encoding cyclic dinucleotide phosphodiesterases. We show that PepA represses biofilm formation and activates motility/chemotaxis. We propose a model in which membrane-bound CRP interferes with PepA DNA binding. Under nutrient limitation, PepA is released. Together, CRP and free PepA activate a transcriptional response that impels the bacterium to seek a more hospitable environment. This work uncovers a function for CRP in the sequestration of a regulatory protein. More broadly, it describes a paradigm of bacterial transcriptome modulation through metabolically regulated association of transcription factors with the cell membrane.
Multidisciplinary Sciences Science & Technology Science & Technology - Other Topics

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