Proteolysis in the SOS response and metal homeostasis in Escherichia coli

Proteolysis is used by all forms of life for shaping the proteome in response to adverse environmental conditions in order to ensure optimal survival. Here we will address the role of proteolysis in helping cells respond to environmental stress, with a focus on the impact of proteolysis under DNA-damaging conditions and in maintenance of cellular homeostasis in response to metal exposure in bacteria. (C) 2009 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.