Bacillus subtilis response to mercury toxicity: A defense mediated by sulphur- rich molecules and oxidative prevention systems

Employing an RNA-seq approach, we determined the global transcriptional response elicited by Hg (II) ions in vegetative B. subtilis cells. Results from RNAseq analysis revealed that genes involved in biosynthesis of metal efflux proteins, reductases and sulphur-containing molecules such as cysteine were upregulated, whereas genes involved in metabolism and uptake of iron and cell envelope stress were down-regulated.