Abstract
Induction of the SOS genes is required for efficient repair of damaged DNA in Escherichia coli. SOS induction by nalidixic acid or oxolinic acid, two inhibitors of DNA gyrase, requires the RecBC enzyme of E. coli. We report here that the nuclease activity of RecBC enzyme is not needed for SOS induction by these agents. We suggest that the unwinding activity of RecBC enzyme produces single-stranded DNA which activates the RecA protein to stimulate LexA repressor cleavage and SOS induction.
Publication types
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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DNA Repair* / drug effects
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DNA, Bacterial / metabolism
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DNA, Single-Stranded / metabolism
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Escherichia coli / drug effects
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Escherichia coli / genetics
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Escherichia coli / metabolism*
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Escherichia coli Proteins*
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Exodeoxyribonuclease V
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Exodeoxyribonucleases / genetics
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Exodeoxyribonucleases / metabolism*
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Gene Expression Regulation / drug effects
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Genes, Bacterial / drug effects
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Nalidixic Acid / pharmacology
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Oxolinic Acid / pharmacology
Substances
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DNA, Bacterial
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DNA, Single-Stranded
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Escherichia coli Proteins
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Nalidixic Acid
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Exodeoxyribonucleases
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Exodeoxyribonuclease V
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exodeoxyribonuclease V, E coli
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Oxolinic Acid