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H-NS is a bacterial transposon capture protein
- Source :
- Nature Communications, Vol 15, Iss 1, Pp 1-15 (2024)
- Publication Year :
- 2024
- Publisher :
- Nature Portfolio, 2024.
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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 :
- Science
Subjects
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