Identification of an ArgR-controlled promoter within the outermost region of the IS <i>10</i> R mobile element

Mobile genetic elements are small DNA fragments that can relocate within the genome, causing either gene inactivation or enhanced gene expression. Our research identified a new functional promoter and mRNA translation region within the IS10R element, which is part of the widely distributed <i>Tn10</i> transposon. We found that the global regulators ArgR and IHF control the activity of this promoter. Additionally, insertion of this mini-<i>Tn10</i> derivative into the <i>barA</i> gene resulted in the expression of a truncated but constitutive active form of the BarA sensor kinase. Overall, our work sheds light on how mobile genetic elements could impact the physiology and virulence of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria.