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H-NS is a bacterial transposon capture protein

Authors :
Charles Cooper
Simon Legood
Rachel L. Wheat
David Forrest
Prateek Sharma
James R. J. Haycocks
David C. Grainger
Source :
Nature Communications, Vol 15, Iss 1, Pp 1-15 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
Nature Portfolio, 2024.

Abstract

Abstract The histone-like nucleoid structuring (H-NS) protein is a DNA binding factor, found in gammaproteobacteria, with functional equivalents in diverse microbes. Universally, such proteins are understood to silence transcription of horizontally acquired genes. Here, we identify transposon capture as a major overlooked function of H-NS. Using genome-scale approaches, we show that H-NS bound regions are transposition “hotspots”. Since H-NS often interacts with pathogenicity islands, such targeting creates clinically relevant phenotypic diversity. For example, in Acinetobacter baumannii, we identify altered motility, biofilm formation, and interactions with the human immune system. Transposon capture is mediated by the DNA bridging activity of H-NS and, if absent, more ubiquitous transposition results. Consequently, transcribed and essential genes are disrupted. Hence, H-NS directs transposition to favour evolutionary outcomes useful for the host cell.

Subjects

Subjects :
Science

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20411723
Volume :
15
Issue :
1
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Nature Communications
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.34ece52783e4dcfbf2a284be437b584
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51407-5