A mutation in RNA polymerase imparts resistance to β-lactams by preventing dysregulation of amino acid and nucleotide metabolism
Patel and Helmann identify metabolic pathways that are dysregulated in RNAP mutant strains with altered β-lactam sensitivity. Genetic and physiological studies demonstrate that BCAA and Pyr synthesis are repressed in a β-lactam-resistant strain. Derepression of these pathways, genetically or by β-lactams, leads to ROS production and antibiotic sensitivity.