The aerobic/anaerobic interface

Microorganisms have evolved intricate signal transduction mechanisms that respond both to dioxygen per se and to the consequences imparted by dioxygen on the metabolism of the cell. Escherichia coli provides examples of both types of signal sensing mechanisms, including FNR and the Are system. The factors involved in these diverse sensory systems are proving to have a pervasive impact on controlling gene expression and cellular physiology. Similar signal transduction systems are prevalent in a diverse range of microorganisms.