Termination factor Rho mediates transcriptional reprogramming of Bacillus subtilis stationary phase

Here, we described comparative transcriptomic analysis of B. subtilis strain stably expressing rho with the wild type and rho-deficient strains. We show that maintaining a stable Rho level caused global changes of B. subtilis transcriptome including both strong down-regulation of the antisense transcription and considerable modifications of the sense transcription. The observed changes were more noticeable upon entering the stationary phase and comprised majority of genes controlled by global transcription regulators AbrB and CodY, competence transcription factor ComK, and stringent response. Constitutively expressed rho reprograms stationary phase-specific cellular physiology, affects adaptation of cells to nutrient limitations by attenuating the stringent response and alters cell-fate decision-making to such an extent that it blocks competence development and sporulation. Overall design: Impact of a stable Rho level on Bacillus subtilis global gene expression and physiology during exponential growth and upon entering the stationary phase.