Among the targets of CRP is the spf gene which encodes the dual-function sRNA Spot 42; spf expression is repressed by CRP. Spot 42 base pairs with and represses expression from a number of mRNAs encoding proteins involved in the uptake and catabolism of nonpreferred carbon sources. CRP and Spot 42 coregulate at least 14 operons involved in cellular metabolism, forming a coherent feedforward loop. Interaction with SpfP, encoded within the Spot 42 RNA, reinforces this feedforward loop