Biochemistry Questions / Explain the regulatory mechanisms involved in the transition from σ70 to σ38 in bacterial gene regulation. How do anti-sigma factors like Rsd and HscC play a role in this transition?

Both σ70 and σ38 are present in the cell during the log growth phase, with σ70 being dominant. For the cell to transition to σ38, it must produce anti-sigma factors to sequester σ70. Rsd and HscC are necessary for this transition, slowing growth and changing the bacterium’s metabolic reactions.