Phosphorylation-independent regulation of the diguanylate cyclase WspR
2008
Understanding the Regulation of WspR in Bacteria
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): De Nabanita, Pirruccello Michelle, Krasteva Petya Violinova, Bae Narae, Raghavan Rahul Veera, Sondermann Holger
Primary Institution: Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University
Hypothesis
WspR is regulated by feedback inhibition mediated by c-di-GMP.
Conclusion
WspR utilizes a novel mechanism for modulation of its activity through oligomerization, which is influenced by c-di-GMP levels.
Supporting Evidence
- WspR is a conserved response regulator that controls biofilm formation in Pseudomonas.
- The crystal structure of WspR reveals its interaction with c-di-GMP at an inhibitory site.
- Mutations in WspR can affect its ability to regulate biofilm formation.
Takeaway
Bacteria can form communities called biofilms, and a protein called WspR helps control this process by responding to a signaling molecule called c-di-GMP.
Methodology
The study involved crystallography to determine the structure of WspR and biochemical assays to analyze its activity.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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