Bacterially speaking

Article Abstract:

Bacteria use a variety of means to communicate with one another and with their eukaryotic hosts, and in some cases, social interactions allow bacteria to synchronize the behavior of all of the members of the group and thereby act like multicellular organisms. The molecular mechanisms underpinning some newly discovered communication systems are explored and developments in the field of cell-cell communication and interaction among bacteria and between bacteria and eukaryotes are summarized.

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Evidence for a novel protease governing regulated intramembrane proteolysis and resistance to antimicrobial peptides in Bacillus subtilis

Article Abstract:

Evidence is presented that the activation of the RNA polymerase sigma factor of [sigma.sup.w] in Bacillus subtilis by regulated intramembrane proteolysis is governed by a novel, membrane-embedded protease. Residues important for proteolysis are identified along with a cluster of acidic residues involved in sensing antimicrobial peptides and cell envelope stress.

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A three-protein signaling pathway governing immunity to a bacterial cannibalism toxin

Article Abstract:

A three-protein signal-transduction pathway governing immunity to a bacterial cannibalism toxin is discussed. Immunity protein Sdpl is a signal-transduction protein responding to the SdpC toxin by sequestering the SdpR autorepressor at the membrane.

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