YtfK activates the stringent response by triggering the alarmone synthetase SpoT in Escherichia coli

• DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-13764-4
• Publication Date: 2019-12-17T11:02:49Z
• Authors: Elsa Germain; Paul Guiraud; Deborah Byrne; Badreddine Douzi; Meriem Djendli; Etienne Maisonneuve
• Keywords: Stringent response; SOS response

Abstract The stringent response is a general bacterial stress that allows bacteria to adapt and survive adverse conditions. This reprogramming of cell physiology caused by the accumulation alarmone (p)ppGpp which, in Escherichia coli , depends on synthetase RelA bifunctional synthetase/hydrolase SpoT. Although conditions control SpoT-dependent have been described, molecular mechanisms regulating switching from degradation synthesis remain poorly understood. Here, we show protein YtfK promotes E. required for activation during phosphate fatty acid starvation. Our results indicate can interact with We propose activates tilting catalytic balance SpoT toward synthesis.