Activity of a bacterial cell envelope stress response is controlled by the interaction of a protein binding domain with different partners

Abstract

Background: Regulation of the bacterial phage shock protein (Psp) stress response is poorly understood. Results: The C-terminal domain of PspC (PspCCT) can interact with PspA or PspB. Conclusion: Induction of psp gene expression involves a PspCCT binding partner switch from PspB to PspA. Significance: Understanding the activation mechanism is critical because this system is essential for virulence in Yersinia enterocolitica and Salmonella enterica.