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Attachment site of the genetic element e14.
1Department of Biological Chemistry, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Pennsylvania State University 17033.
Journal of Bacteriology
|May 1, 1988
Summary
The Escherichia coli K-12 genetic element e14 integrates into the host chromosome via a specific 216-base-pair region. Site-specific recombination requires a chromosomal e14 copy and SOS induction for both integration and excision.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- The genetic element e14 in Escherichia coli K-12 possesses a 216-base-pair region homologous to the host chromosome, serving as its integration site.
- This homology region contains 28 mismatches, with the actual crossover occurring within the initial 11 base pairs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors influencing e14 site-specific recombination.
- To understand the mechanisms of e14 integration and excision in Escherichia coli.
Main Methods:
- Cloning of e14 and host chromosome attachment sites into a single plasmid.
- Analysis of intramolecular recombination in host cells containing a chromosomal e14 copy.
- Induction of the SOS response to study recombination events.
Main Results:
- Cloned attachment sites underwent intramolecular recombination.
- Recombination required both a chromosomal copy of e14 and SOS induction.
- Both integration and excision events were observed under identical conditions and occurred with similar frequency.
Conclusions:
- The presence of a chromosomal e14 copy and SOS induction are critical for e14 site-specific recombination.
- The same conditions facilitate both integration and excision of the e14 element.
- The study elucidates key factors governing the recombination dynamics of the e14 genetic element.