Final answer:
Bacteria activate the heat shock genes for transcription in response to heat stress. These genes encode for heat shock proteins (HSPs) that help refold misfolded proteins and protect the bacteria from damage caused by high temperatures.
Step-by-step explanation:
When bacteria respond to heat stress, they activate the heat shock genes for transcription. These heat shock genes encode for heat shock proteins (HSPs) that help refold misfolded proteins and protect the bacteria from damage caused by high temperatures. The activation of these genes is triggered by the release of HSPs from the NR/HSP complex and the subsequent transcription of HSP genes.