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Programmed Heterogeneity: Epigenetic Mechanisms in Bacteria

https://doi.org/10.1074/jbc.R113.472274Get rights and content
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Contrary to the traditional view that bacterial populations are clonal, single-cell analysis reveals that phenotypic heterogeneity is common in bacteria. Formation of distinct bacterial lineages appears to be frequent during adaptation to harsh environments, including the colonization of animals by bacterial pathogens. Formation of bacterial subpopulations is often controlled by epigenetic mechanisms that generate inheritable phenotypic diversity without altering the DNA sequence. Such mechanisms are diverse, ranging from relatively simple feedback loops to complex self-perpetuating DNA methylation patterns.

Bacterial Genetics
DNA Methylation
DNA Methyltransferase
Epigenetics
Escherichia coli
Gene Regulation
DNA Methylation Pattern
Genetic Switch
Phase Variation
Reversible Bistability

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