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Characterization of the heat-shock response and its effect on development in Myxococcus xanthus

Thesis/Dissertation ·
OSTI ID:5099005
The heat-shock response of Myxococcus xanthus was investigated and characterized. When shifted from 28 to 40{degree}C, log-phase cells rapidly ceased growth, exhibited a 50% reduction in CFU, and initiated synthesis of heat-shock proteins (hsps). Heat-shocked vegetative M. xanthus labeled with ({sup 35}S)methionine produced 18 major hsps. The hsps, analyzed by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and fluorography were characterized with regard to molecular weight, subcellular fraction, and temperature required for expression. Heat-shocked starvation-induced fruiting cells and glycerol-induced sporulating cells were also analyzed and characterized. Thirteen hsps were detected in fruiting cells shifting from 28 to 40{degree}C while glycerol-induced cells produced 17 hsps after shift to 40{degree}C. The effect of heat-shock on M. xanthus was also investigated during both starvation-induced and glycerol-induced development. Tn5 mutants of M. xanthus were constructed and screened for vegetative and developmental defects.
Research Organization:
Rhode Island Univ., Kingston, RI (USA)
OSTI ID:
5099005
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English