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Evolution of the extracytoplasmic function σ factor protein family
Daniela Pinto1, Rute R da Fonseca2
1Technische Universität Dresden, Institute of Microbiology, Zellescher Weg 20b, 01217 Dresden, Germany.
NAR Genomics and Bioinformatics
|February 12, 2021
Summary
The evolutionary history of bacterial extracytoplasmic function (ECF) sigma factors reveals single origins for partner regulation and multiple origins for regulatory extensions. Horizontal gene transfer is also evident in these essential adaptation proteins.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Bacterial transcription relies on DNA-directed RNA polymerase and specificity-conferring sigma (σ) factors.
- Alternative σ factors, particularly the diverse extracytoplasmic function (ECF) family, regulate stress responses and adaptation.
- The evolutionary pathways of ECF σ factors remain largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the evolutionary history and diversification of the extracytoplasmic function (ECF) σ factor family.
- To understand the origins of regulatory mechanisms and structural variations within ECF σ factors.
- To identify instances of gene duplication and horizontal gene transfer involving ECF σ factors.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic analysis of thousands of ECF σ factor sequences.
- Comparative genomics to identify gene duplications and regulatory element acquisition.
- Tracing horizontal gene transfer events across bacterial phyla.
Main Results:
- Single evolutionary events explain the origin of partner-dependent regulation in ECF σ factors.
- Multiple independent events led to the acquisition of regulatory extensions in ECF σ factors.
- Gene duplication within ecologically relevant clusters (Bacteroidetes) and novel C-terminal extensions (Planctomycetes) were observed.
- Horizontal transfer of ECF σ factors was identified among soil bacteria.
Conclusions:
- ECF σ factor evolution is characterized by both conserved regulatory origins and diverse acquisition of extensions.
- Gene duplication and horizontal transfer play significant roles in the adaptation and dissemination of ECF σ factors.
- Understanding ECF σ factor evolution provides insights into bacterial stress response and environmental adaptation mechanisms.
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