Summary
λrev is a hybrid lambdoid phage formed by recombination between λ and a defective lambdoid prophage (Rac) present in most E. coli K12 derivatives. We show here that three independently derived Rac- E. coli K12 strains are specifically deleted for the entire Rac prophage consistent with loss of Rac by excisive recombination between hybrid attachment sites that flank the prophage (c.f. excision of a λ prophage). λrev, in which int and PP′ of λ have been replaced by integrative recombination genes and an attachment site derived from Rac (Gottesman et al. 1974), integrates site-specifically and in the correct orientation at the preferential attachment site generated by Rac excision.
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Communicated by E. Bautz
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Diaz, R., Kaiser, K. Rac- E. coli K12 strains carry a preferential attachment site for λrev . Molec. Gen. Genet. 183, 484–489 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00268769
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00268769