PhoU: a multifaceted regulator in microbial signaling and homeostasis

Curr Opin Microbiol. 2023 Nov 20;77:102401. doi: 10.1016/j.mib.2023.102401. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTInorganic phosphate (Pi) is a fundamental molecule crucial for numerous biological processes, such as ATP synthesis and phospholipid formation. To prevent cellular toxicity, Pi transport is often linked to counterion transport within the bacterium. This review discusses the multifaceted functions of the PhoU protein in bacterial regulation, focusing on its role in coordinating Pi transport with counterions, controlling polyphosphate accumulation, and regulating secondary metabolite biosynthesis and DNA repair. We also explore recent findings that challenge the conventional view of PhoU simply as a negative regulator in phosphate signaling, suggesting its broader impact on bacterial physiology and stress response. Understanding the diverse functions of PhoU provides new insight into bacterial biology and offers potential therapeutic implications.PMID:37988810 | DOI:10.1016/j.mib.2023.102401
Source: Current Opinion in Microbiology - Category: Microbiology Authors: Source Type: research