The miniF plasmid C protein: sequence, purification and DNA binding

Abstract
The C (PifC) protein of miniF represses transcription of its own gene by binding to the Pif operator (pifO); it is also needed for replication initiated from the miniF primary origin (ori-1). We have determined the nucleotide sequence of the C gene. The gene has been inserted into an expression vector under Ptrp control where it is expressed at high levels. The C protein has been purified from cells carrying the Ptxp-C plasmid, and a preliminary study of C protein-DNA binding properties has Been carried out. C protein binds strongly to PifO, and weakly to sequences in the ori-1 region.