The matter of how energy dependent proteolysis regulates cellular response to, and recovery from, stresses will be studied by examining the functions of specific proteins in Bacillus subtilis. The "Lon" class of proteases will be studied using both genetic and biochemical analyses of proteolytic activities that are characterized by ATP-dependent stimulation. The regulatory aspects of these proteases and the functions they regulate will be examined. The research planned is aimed at understanding how energy dependent proteolysis functions in a cell's response to, and recovery from environmentally imposed stresses. Bacteria of the genus Bacillus are the focus of the experimental undertakings.//
