Figure 1. Schema of phenotypes observed upon ζ toxin expression.

At time zero expression of the ζ toxin was induced. Between the 5 to 15 min interval the expression of 78 genes was altered, without apparent alteration of the cellular proteome. At indicated times intervals macromolecular biosynthesis, GTP and ATP pool was reduced, the membrane permeability altered, and a novel radiolabeled nucleotide accumulated. After 120 min ∼30% of cells became PI stained and ∼10⁻⁴ were able to form colonies after overnight incubation. In the lower line, at time 120 min after toxin expression the expression of the ε₂ antitoxin was also induced and the number of survivals and the proportion of PI stained cells estimated 120 min later (240 min).