Lsr2 and its novel paralogue mediate the adjustment of Mycobacterium smegmatis to unfavorable environmental conditions

In this study, we analyze the role of Lsr2 as a transcription factor in M. smegmatis, a saprophytic bacterium whose natural habitat (soil and water) substantially differs from that of the obligatory mycobacterial pathogens. In summary, the combined RNA-seq and ChIP-seq data revealed that Lsr2 controls gene expression either directly by binding their promoter regions or indirectly through DNA loop formation. Examination of M. smegmatis Lsr2 protein binding sites in optimal growth condition.