division septum assembly

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The assembly and arrangement of a septum that spans the plasma membrane interface between progeny cells following cytokinesis. The progeny cells that form a division septum are not able to exchange intracellular material. [GOC:mtg_cell_cycle]

Division septum assembly is a fundamental process in bacterial cell division. It involves the formation of a new cell wall structure, the septum, which physically separates the two daughter cells. This intricate process is orchestrated by a complex network of proteins, each playing a crucial role in coordinating the synthesis and assembly of the septum.

The process begins with the formation of a ring-like structure called the Z-ring, composed of the protein FtsZ. This ring forms at the future site of septum formation, acting as a scaffold for the recruitment of other essential proteins. Once the Z-ring is established, other proteins, like FtsA and ZipA, link it to the cytoplasmic membrane, providing structural integrity and anchoring the ring to the cell's periphery.

Following Z-ring formation, a protein complex known as the divisome assembles at the septum site. This complex consists of various proteins, including FtsK, FtsQ, FtsL, and FtsB, which are responsible for regulating the synthesis of peptidoglycan, the primary building block of the bacterial cell wall.

Peptidoglycan synthesis at the septum involves the coordinated action of several enzymes. Transpeptidases, like penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), catalyze the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains, creating a rigid and stable structure. Transglycosylases, like FtsW, are responsible for the polymerization of glycan chains, extending the peptidoglycan network.

As the peptidoglycan layer grows, the septum constricts, ultimately pinching off the two daughter cells. This constriction is driven by the coordinated action of the Z-ring, the divisome, and the polymerization of peptidoglycan.

In addition to peptidoglycan synthesis, other processes are involved in septum assembly. For example, the protein FtsI, a transpeptidase, is crucial for proper septum formation, and mutations in this gene can lead to abnormal septum formation and cell division defects.

The completion of septum formation marks the end of cell division, resulting in the formation of two daughter cells. This process is tightly regulated, ensuring that each daughter cell inherits a complete set of genetic material and the necessary cellular machinery for independent survival.

Overall, division septum assembly is a complex and tightly regulated process involving a wide range of proteins and enzymes that work in concert to ensure the accurate and efficient division of bacterial cells. This process is essential for bacterial growth and proliferation and is a key target for antibacterial drugs.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (7)