Sigma factor RpoN (σ54) regulates pilE transcription in commensal Neisseria elongata

• DOI: 10.1111/mmi.12350
• Publication Date: 2013-07-31T08:59:58Z
• Authors: María A. Rendón; Alyson M. Hockenb...; Steven A. McManus; Magdalene So
• Keywords: Commensalism; Transcription; rpoN; Pilin; Trans-acting

Human-adapted Neisseria includes two pathogens, gonorrhoeae and meningitidis, at least 13 species of commensals that colonize many the same niches as pathogens. The Type IV pilus plays an important role in biology pathogenic Neisseria. In these species, Sigma factor RpoD (σ(70)), Integration Host Factor, repressors RegF CrgA regulate transcription pilE, gene encoding structural subunit. is also a strictly conserved trait commensal We present evidence different mechanism regulates pilE commensals. Using elongata model, we show RpoN (σ(54)), activator name Npa transcription. Taken context with previous reports, our findings indicate regulation switched from RpoN- to RpoD-dependent diverged during evolution. Our have implications for timing Tfp expression Tfp-mediated host cell interactions groups bacteria.