title: Molecular bases of stress-induced mutagenesis in pseudomonads
reg no: ETF5757
project type: Estonian Science Foundation research grant
subject: 1.9. Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology
status: accepted
institution: Estonian Biocentre
head of project: Maia Kivisaar
duration: 01.01.2004 - 31.12.2007
description: So far, the mechanisms of stress-induced mutagenesis have mostly been studied in E. coli. However, recent evidence suggests that mechanisms responsible for stress-induced mutagenesis in E. coli are not entirely compatible with those from other organisms. The aim of this project is to study molecular bases of mutagenic processes in Pseudomonas by concentrating on mechanisms that allow genetic adaptation of microbial populations under environmental stress.
1. We will study regulation of transposition of Tn4652 under environmental stress, by concentrating on identification two-component signal transduction system ColRS-regulated factors controlling transposition of Tn4652.
2. We will study regulation of expression of P. putida error-prone DNA polymerases under stressful conditions.
3. We will specify which type of mutations (different base substitutions, frameshift mutations) are generated by error-prone DNA polymerase pol IV and pol V plasmid-encoded homologue in stationary phase cells of P. putida.
4. We will study efficiency of DNA mismatch repair pathway (MMR) in P. putida under stressful conditions and will specify which type of mutations this repair pathway could avoid.

Results obtained from the proposed investigations would widen our awareness about molecular mechanisms of mutagenesis in stressed cells and will help to evaluate significance of stress-inducible mutagenesis in microbial evolution.

project group
no name institution position  
1.Koit ArroTüMRImagistrant 
2.Rita HõrakEBKvanemteadur 
3.Heili IlvesTüMRIteadur 
4.Maia KivisaarEstonian Biocentregroup leader 
5.Signe SaumaaTüMRIdoktorant 
6.Radi TegovaTüMRImagistrant 
7.Riho TerasTüMRIteadur 
8.Andres ToverTüMRIteadur