Control of cell morphogenesis in bacteria: two distinct ways to make a rod-shaped cell

Article Abstract:

In the Gram-positive bacteria, cell shape is determined by the MreB family of proteins that form helical, actin-like cables in the cell and occurs by diverse molecular pathways. Research reveals that in the rod-shaped Bacillus subtilis synthesis of the cell wall cylindrical structure occurs in a helical pattern, mediated by an MreB homolog. However, in a few rod-like bacteria the rod shape is accomplished by polar growth zones.

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Crystal structure of the vinculin tail suggests a pathway for activation

Article Abstract:

Results demonstrate that cytoskeletal protein vinculin plays a role in the assemby of the actin cytoskeleton. Data indicate that C-terminal arm of vinculin binds to the acidic phospholipids and this binding results in conformational changes leading to activation of actin.

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Control of cell shape in bacteria: helical, actin-like filaments in Bacillus subtilis

Article Abstract:

In Bacillus subtilis two related genes, mreB and MbI, have been shown to be necessary for different aspects of cell morphogenesis. It appears that the MreB-like proteins have a cytoskeletal, actin-like role in bacterial cell morphogenesis.

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