Integration host factor is required for positive regulation of the tdc operon of Escherichia coli

A 14-bp segment in the promoter region of the tdcABC operon of Escherichia coli shows sequence identity with the consensus binding site for the E. coli integration host factor (IHF). In an himA (IHF-deficient) strain, expression of beta-galactosidase from a tdcB'-'lacZ protein fusion plasmid was about 10% of that seen with an isogenic himA+ strain. Threonine dehydratase activity from the chromosomal tdcB gene in the himA mutant was also about 10% of the wild-type enzyme level. Two different mutations introduced into the putative IHF-binding site in the fusion plasmid greatly reduced the plasmid-coded beta-galactosidase activity in cells containing IHF. In vitro gel retardation and DNase I footprinting analyses showed binding of purified IHF to the wild-type but not to the mutant promoter. IHF protected a 31-bp region between -118 and -88 encompassing the conserved IHF consensus sequence. These results suggest that efficient expression of the tdc operon in vivo requires a functional IHF and an IHF-binding site in the tdc promoter.