Problem:
Transformation is a process in which bacteria take up new DNA released by dead cells and integrate it into their own genomes (this is the process Griffith discovered). In Streptococcus pneumonia, the ability to carry out transformation requires from 105-124 genes, collectively termed the com region. The com regulon (several operons under the control of the same regulatory protein) is activated in response to a protein called competence-stimulating peptide (CSP), which is produced by bacteria and is exported into the surrounding medium.
When enough CSP accumulates, it attaches to a receptor protein that stimulates the transcription of genes within the com regulon and sets in motion a series of reactions that ultimately result in transformation.
The com regulon in S. pneumonia appears to be controlled by which type of gene regulation? Explain.
Include additional suggestions about information you find.