Optimal proteome allocation and the temperature dependence of microbial growth laws

Abstract Although the effect of temperature on microbial growth has been widely studied, role proteome allocation in bringing about temperature-induced changes remains elusive. To tackle this problem, we propose a coarse-grained model growth, including processes temperature-sensitive protein unfolding and chaperone-assisted (re)folding. We determine sector that maximizes balanced rate as function nutrient limitation temperature. Calibrated with quantitative proteomic data for Escherichia coli , allows us to clarify general principles temperature-dependent formulate generalized laws. The same activation energy metabolic enzymes ribosomes leads an Arrhenius increase at constant composition over large range temperatures, whereas extreme temperatures resources are diverted away from chaperone-mediated stress responses. Our approach points risks possible remedies use ribosome content characterize complex ecosystems variation.