Data yielded from RIViT-seq increased the number of sigma factor-gene pairs confirmed in Streptomyces coelicolor from 209 to 399. Here, grey arrows denote previously known regulation and red arrows are regulation identified by RIViT-seq; orange nodes mark sigma factors while gray nodes mark other genes. (Otani, H., Mouncey, N.J. Nat Commun 13, 3502 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-022-31191-w)

Using RIViT-seq technology, which combines an in vitro transcription assay with RNA sequencing, researchers identified the target genes of 11 sigma factors in Streptomyces coelicolor. The work, published in Nature Communications, was conducted by Joint Genome Institute (JGI) Director Nigel Mouncey and research scientist Hiroshi Otani. Both are members of the JGI’s Secondary Metabolite Science Program, which Mouncey leads. Transcription factors control when and how genes are turned on or off, making transcriptional regulation critical as it ensures those genes vital for growth and survival across various environments are expressed when their functions are needed. Learn more on the JGI website.