Highly canalized MinD transfer and MinE sequestration explain the origin of robust MinCDE-protein dynamics.
Min-protein oscillations in Escherichia coli are characterized by the remarkable robustness with which spatial patterns dynamically adapt to variations of cell geometry. Moreover, adaption, and therefore proper cell division, is independent of temperature. These observations raise fundamental questions about the mechanisms establishing robust Min oscillations, and about the role of spatial cues, as they are at odds with present models. Here, we introduce a robust model based on experimental data, consistently explaining the mechanisms underlying pole-to-pole, striped, and circular patterns, as well as the observed temperature dependence of the oscillation period. Contrary to prior conjectures, the model predicts that MinD and cardiolipin domains are not colocalized. The transient sequestration of MinE and highly canalized transfer of MinD between polar zones are the key mechanisms underlying oscillations. MinD channeling enhances midcell localization and facilitates stripe formation, revealing the potential optimization process from which robust Min-oscillations originally arose.
Arnold Sommerfeld Center for Theoretical Physics and Center for NanoScience, Department of Physics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Theresienstraße 37, D-80333 München, Germany.
Jacob
J
Halatek
Erwin
E
Frey
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000251:Adenosine Triphosphatases / Q000378:metabolism*; D002308:Cardiolipins / Q000737:chemistry; D018797:Cell Cycle Proteins / Q000378:metabolism*; D003600:Cytosol / Q000378:metabolism; D004926:Escherichia coli / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism*; D029968:Escherichia coli Proteins / Q000378:metabolism*; D006868:Hydrolysis; D008954:Models, Biological; D011485:Protein Binding; D017434:Protein Structure, Tertiary; D021381:Protein Transport; D015398:Signal Transduction; D013696:Temperature
D002308:Cardiolipins; D018797:Cell Cycle Proteins; D029968:Escherichia coli Proteins; C093548:MinE protein, E coli; D000251:Adenosine Triphosphatases; C072069:MinD protein, E coli