Temperature-dependent proteolysis as a control element in Escherichia coli metabolism

Escherichia coli can grow at a broad temperature range, from less than 20 °C up to 45 °C. An increase in temperature results in a major physiological change, as enzymes work faster but, on the other hand, proteins tend to unfold. Therefore, a shift-up in temperature results in the induction of several regulatory response mechanisms aimed at restoring balanced growth at the new temperature. One important mechanism involves temperature-dependent proteolysis, which constitutes a fast response to temperature shift-ups. Here we discuss the effect of proteolysis on protein synthesis, and the heat shock response.