Abstract
To maintain the structural and functional integrity of their genomes, after damage due to environmental or metabolic assaults, bacteria mount a program of gene expression known as the “SOS response”. Induction of this response is regulated by a repressor, the LexA protein, and an inducer, the RecA protein. In Escherichia coli, upon DNA damage, RecA stimulates cleavage of the LexA repressor, inducing expression of approximately 1% of its genes. The coordinated expression of these genes orchestrates a complex program of DNA repair; often leading to accumulation of mutations, and delaying cell division until the damage is repaired. In some bacteria, the SOS response also regulates genes that are not part of the repair program. Rather, they are involved in the induction of bacteriophages, the movement of pathogenicity islands and the expression of virulence factors and bacteriocins. Hence, the SOS response is essential for bacterial adaptation and survival.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
