Escherichia coli MazF Leads to the Simultaneous Selective Synthesis of Both 'Death Proteins' and 'Survival Proteins'
2009
How E. coli Uses Death and Survival Proteins
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Susan M. Rosenberg, Harmit S. Malik
Primary Institution: Baylor College of Medicine
Hypothesis
What is the mechanism of programmed cell death caused by the MazF gene in E. coli?
Conclusion
The study reveals that E. coli can produce both death and survival proteins in response to the MazF gene, suggesting a complex social behavior among bacterial cells.
Supporting Evidence
- Bacterial cells can communicate and differentiate into subpopulations.
- The MazF gene leads to the production of both death and survival proteins.
- Some proteins increase in abundance after MazF overproduction, despite most proteins decreasing.
- Six of the up-regulated proteins are required for cell death.
- Three of the up-regulated proteins help a small subpopulation survive.
- The study suggests a social purpose behind the death of some cells.
Takeaway
Bacteria can work together like a team, where some cells die to help others survive, especially when they face stress.
Methodology
The researchers analyzed protein levels in E. coli after MazF overproduction and identified proteins that increased or decreased in response.
Limitations
The study does not clarify which specific cells produce the death or survival proteins.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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