Mercury induces multiple antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli through activation of SoxR, a redox-sensing regulatory protein

Abstract

Sub-inhibitory mercury concentrations are capable of partially activating SoxR, as shown by the augmented expression of a soxS'::lacZ fusion, and a diminished sensitivity to antibiotics caused by mercury treatment. Mercury may elevate the intracellular concentration of superoxide or perhaps act as a putative metal ligand for SoxR.