Journal of Bacteriology & Parasitology

Fundamental properties of the ultraviolet-induced mutagenesis: A theoretical background

3^rd International Congress on Bacteriology and Infectious Diseases

August 04-06, 2015 Valencia, Spain

Oleg VBelov

Posters-Accepted Abstracts: J Bacteriol Parasitol

Abstract:

The usage of ultraviolet (UV) light is an effective measure that prevents spreading of bacterial infection in hospitals and
biological laboratories. UV radiation is highly damaging to the wide range of bacterial species and viruses but is relatively
safe to humans in low doses. The sensitivity of bacterial cells to this type of exposure is determined mainly by their lower ability
to repair UV-induced DNA lesions. However, the limited fraction of bacteria can survive through the successful recovery of
introduced DNA lesions with mutagenic or non-mutagenic outcome. In this regard, one of the most important biological
mechanisms governing the cell’s fate is the SOS response. Upon introducing damage to their genomes, bacteria such as E.
coli activate the SOS network enabling cells to bypass DNA damage via specifictranslesion synthesis pathway. The current
talk discusses the fundamental properties of the UV-induced SOS response on the basis of mathematical model developed by
the author. The model summarizes recent findings in the field and provides a background for better understanding of gene
regulation of the bacterial UV mutagenesis. It describes a whole sequence of the events leading to the fixation of the primary
DNA lesion as a point mutation. The model also shows a possible mechanistic explanation of links between the SOS system
and other DNA repair pathways. Finally, the talk review possible implications of recently established fundamental properties
of the UV-mutagenesis in treatment of bacterial infections.