BACTERIAL SENSOR KINASE/RESPONSE REGULATOR SYSTEMS - AN INTRODUCTION

Three evolutionarily and functionally distinct types of protein phosphorylating systems control tactic behaviour, differentiation, gene expression, transmembrane transport, cellular metabolism and virulence in bacteria. This Forum in Microbiology focuses on one of these types of systems, the sensor kinase/response regulator-type system. Fifteen examples of these regulatory systems are described, each of which allows response to specific stimuli, controls different protein or gene targets and produces an appropriate physiological response. The mechanistic similarities and distinctive features of these systems are the focus of discussion.