Systematic review of the Listeria monocytogenes σB regulon supports a role in stress response, virulence and metabolism

Aim: Among the alternative sigma factors of Listeria monocytogenes, sigma(B) controls the largest regulon. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive review of sigma(B)-regulated genes, and the functions they confer. Materials & methods: A systematic search of PubMed and Web of Knowledge was carried out to identify members of the sigma(B) regulon based on experimental evidence of sigma(B)-dependent transcription and presence of a consensus sigma(B)-dependent promoter. Results: The literature review identified sigma(B)-dependent transcription units encompassing 304 genes encoding different functions including stress response and virulence. Conclusion: Our review supports the well-known roles of sigma(B) in virulence and stress response and provides new insight into novel roles for sigma(B) in metabolism and overall resilience of L. monocytogenes.