Convergent Transcription in Streptomyces coelicolor Creates a Genetic Switch for Antibiotic Production
Author Information
Author(s): Anushree Chatterjee, Laurie Drews, Sarika Mehra, Eriko Takano, Yiannis N. Kaznessis, Wei-Shou Hu
Primary Institution: University of Minnesota
Hypothesis
The role of cis-encoded antisense RNAs in the scbA-scbR genetic switch in Streptomyces coelicolor is explored through mathematical modeling.
Conclusion
Convergent transcription confers bistable behavior to the scbA-scbR system, allowing for robust regulation of antibiotic production.
Supporting Evidence
- Convergent transcription leads to transcriptional interference, affecting gene expression.
- The scbA-scbR system exhibits bistable behavior in response to the signaling molecule SCB1.
- Mathematical modeling predicts that the system can switch between antibiotic production states.
- Antisense RNA interactions contribute to the regulation of gene expression in this system.
Takeaway
This study shows that two genes in Streptomyces can work like a switch to control when the bacteria make antibiotics, depending on a signaling molecule.
Methodology
Mathematical modeling was used to analyze the role of convergent transcription and transcriptional interference in the scbA-scbR system.
Limitations
The model does not account for potential RNAP pausing and assumes a simplified interaction between transcripts.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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