Physiological studies on a temperature-sensitive Escherichia coli mutant with an altered RNA polymerase beta'-subunit.

Some in vivo properties of an Escherichia coli temperature-sensitive mutant (JE10092) with an altered RNA polymerase beta'-subunit are described. RNA synthesis, unlike many peviously isolated temperature-sensitive mutants, stops immediately after the shift to the nonpermissive temperature (43 degrees C). DNA synthesis, protein synthesis and nucleoside triphosphate formation continue after the shift. RNA synthesis is recovered immediately upon transfer to the permissive temperature (30 degrees C). The function of the beta'-subunit in genetic transcription is discussed.