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Expression of theunc genes inEscherichia coli

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Abstract

Theunc (or atp) operon ofEscherichia coli comprises eight genes encoding the known subunits of the proton-translocating ATP synthase (H+-ATPase) plus a ninth gene (uncI) of unknown function. The subunit stoichiometry of the H+-ATPase (α 3β3γ1δ1ε1a1b2c10–15) requires that the respectiveunc genes be expressed at different rates. This review discusses the experimental methods applied to determining how differential synthesis is achieved, and evaluates the results obtained. It has been found that the primary level of control is translational initiation. The translational efficiencies of theunc genes are determined by primary and secondary mRNA structures within their respective translational initiation regions. The respective rates of translation are matched to the subunit requirements of H+-ATPase assembly. Finally, points of uncertainty remain and experimental strategies which will be important in future work are discussed.

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  1. Gesellschaft für Biotechnologische Forschung mbH, Mascheroder Weg 1, D-3300, Braunschweig, West Germany

    John E. G. McCarthy

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McCarthy, J.E.G. Expression of theunc genes inEscherichia coli . J Bioenerg Biomembr 20, 19–39 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00762136

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