Induction of competence for genetic transformation by antibiotics: convergent evolution of stress responses in distant bacterial species lacking SOS?
Bacterial transformation is a programmed process resulting in genetic transfer and diversity. It relies on the development of competence via regulatory circuits which are diverse and tailored to the particular lifestyle of each species. Despite this diversity, some species have been reported to trigger competence in response to antibiotics. Here, we review these recent findings, which reinforce the view that competence is a stress response and can substitute for SOS in bacteria lacking it.
Microbiologie Adaptation et Pathogénie, CNRS UMR5240, Domaine Scientifique de la Doua, 69622 Villeurbanne, France.
Xavier
X
Charpentier
Patrice
P
Polard
Jean-Pierre
JP
Claverys
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001419:Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000235:genetics*; D061269:DNA Transformation Competence / Q000187:drug effects*; D019143:Evolution, Molecular; D013014:SOS Response, Genetics; D013312:Stress, Physiological; D014170:Transformation, Genetic / Q000187:drug effects*
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents