Sangeevan Vellappan

Editor’s summary Bacterial small proteins regulate diverse cellular activities and responses to environmental stimuli. Vellappan et al. identified small proteins induced by Mg2+ starvation in Escherichia coli and investigated their mechanisms of induction, subcellular localization, and effects on cell growth.

Abstract Signaling networks in bacteria enable environmental sensing and adaptation to challenging conditions by activating specific genes that help counteract stressors. Small proteins (≥50 amino acids long) are a rising class of bacterial stress response regulators. Escherichia coli encodes over 150 small proteins, most of which lack known phenotypes and their biological roles remain elusive.

Abstract Fluorescence imaging is an effective method for detecting porphyrin production in bacteria, leveraging the natural fluorescence properties of porphyrins. Here we use a simple, lightweight, hands-free device for rapid, non-invasive assessments in clinical settings, microbial research, and diagnostic applications.