R46 encodes a site-specific recombination system interchangeable with the resolution function of TnA

Transposition of Tn4 onto the IncN plasmic R46 generates unstable DNA molecules. The R46::TnA recombinant plasmids undergo further DNA rearrangements which depend on the orientation in which the TnA element is inserted into the plasmid, and deletions and inversions of R46 and TnA sequences have been observed. Both types of rearrangement have the same specific endpoints, one within TnA and one located between the R46 coordinates, 36.0 and 37.0. The results are consistent with the operation of a recA-independent, site-specific recombination system utilizing, at least in part, the transposon cointegrate resolution system of TnA, together with R46-encoded functions. Data are presented that indicate that R46 encodes analogs of both the res site of TnA and its tnpR gene, although little homology between this element and the plasmid is apparent. Models for the TnA-induced generation of site-specific deletions and inversions upon transposition of TnA to R46 are presented.