Abstract

The properties of a temperature-sensitive mutant (ts39) of Staphylococcus aureus NCTC 8235 are described. After transfer to the restrictive temperature (42 degrees C), absorbance increased 10-to 20-fold but DNA content did not increase beyond 150 to 200% and cell division continued at a greatly reduced rate. On transfer back to the permissive temperature, both cell division and DNA synthesis resumed if the transfer occurred after less than 120 min at 42 degrees C. Resumption of DNA replication was blocked by chloramphenicol (100 microgram ml-1). The results are discussed with reference to possible defects in DNA replication. Replication of the plasmids pI258 and pT10501 and the chromosome were affected to a similar extent in ts39. Growth at 42 degrees C resulted in the appearance of an increased amount of pI258 DNA in a form that sedimented slowly in a sucrose gradient.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.