The Transcription Terminator Rho: A First Bacterial Prion

Trends Microbiol. 2017 Jun;25(6):434-437. doi: 10.1016/j.tim.2017.03.008. Epub 2017 Apr 6.

Abstract

Traditionally associated with neurodegenerative diseases, prions are increasingly recognized for their potential to confer beneficial traits on eukaryotic organisms. The discovery of the first bacterial prion suggests that the sustained mechanism of prion assembly is an ancient molecular tool aimed at providing fast and persistent adaptation to changing environments.

Keywords: amyloid; bacteria; prion; protein aggregation; transcription terminator Rho.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Physiological
  • Amyloid / physiology
  • Bacteria / genetics*
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / microbiology
  • Prions / classification
  • Prions / genetics*
  • Prions / isolation & purification*
  • Prions / physiology
  • Protein Aggregates
  • Proteome / genetics
  • Rho Factor / classification
  • Rho Factor / genetics*
  • Rho Factor / isolation & purification*
  • Rho Factor / physiology

Substances

  • Amyloid
  • Prions
  • Protein Aggregates
  • Proteome
  • Rho Factor