Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 20, 2026

Genome-wide Gene Deletions in Streptococcus sanguinis by High Throughput PCR
14:07

Genome-wide Gene Deletions in Streptococcus sanguinis by High Throughput PCR

Published on: November 23, 2012

Cell wall replication in Streptococcus pyogenes

R M COLE, J J HAHN

    Science (New York, N.Y.)
    |March 2, 1962
    PubMed

    Insights

    This study reveals how Streptococcus pyogenes grows its cell wall. New wall formation occurs at multiple sites simultaneously, extending from the coccal equator, not by diffuse intercalation.

    Area of Science:

    • Microbiology
    • Cell Biology
    • Biochemistry

    Background:

    • Group A streptococci (Streptococcus pyogenes) are significant human pathogens.
    • Understanding bacterial cell wall synthesis is crucial for developing effective antimicrobial strategies.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of cell wall synthesis in Streptococcus pyogenes.
    • To elucidate the mechanism of cell wall formation in a living bacterial system.

    Main Methods:

    • Utilized differential fluorescent labeling of cell walls in Streptococcus pyogenes.
    • Employed ultraviolet, phase, and dark-field microscopy for real-time observation.
    • Applied a reverse labeling technique to differentiate cell wall portions formed at different times.

    Main Results:

    • Demonstrated that new cell wall synthesis is nonfluorescent after initial labeling.
    • Observed simultaneous cell wall formation at at least two sites per coccus.
    • Showed cell wall growth initiates at the coccal equator and extends both peripherally and centripetally.

    Conclusions:

    • Cell wall synthesis in Streptococcus pyogenes occurs at multiple sites, not through diffuse intercalation.
    • The findings provide novel insights into the growth patterns of bacterial cell walls in vivo.
    Keywords:
    STREPTOCOCCUS PYOGENES/physiology

    More Related Videos

    Purification of a High Molecular Mass Protein in Streptococcus mutans09:51

    Purification of a High Molecular Mass Protein in Streptococcus mutans

    Published on: September 14, 2019

    Constructing Mutants in Serotype 1 Streptococcus pneumoniae strain 519/4306:06

    Constructing Mutants in Serotype 1 Streptococcus pneumoniae strain 519/43

    Published on: September 11, 2020

    Related Concept Videos

    Bacterial Cell Wall01:22

    Bacterial Cell Wall

    The bacterial cell wall is an essential structural component that encases the plasma membrane, preserving cellular integrity, determining shape, and protecting against osmotic stress. This rigid yet flexible structure primarily comprises peptidoglycan, a polymer that forms a mesh-like matrix conferring mechanical strength and flexibility.Peptidoglycan Composition and StructurePeptidoglycan, the core of the bacterial cell wall, comprises alternating units of N-acetylglucosamine (NAG) and...
    Peptidoglycan Synthesis01:28

    Peptidoglycan Synthesis

    Structure of PeptidoglycanPeptidoglycan is a vital structural component of the bacterial cell wall, providing mechanical strength and shape to the cell. It consists of repeating units of two sugars—N-acetylglucosamine (NAG) and N-acetylmuramic acid (NAM)—linked by β-1,4 glycosidic bonds. These sugar chains are cross-linked by short peptide chains, forming a mesh-like polymer that surrounds the bacterial plasma membrane.Cytoplasmic Phase – Precursor SynthesisPeptidoglycan biosynthesis begins in...
    DNA Bacteriophages01:26

    DNA Bacteriophages

    Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses that specifically infect bacteria, utilizing their genetic material to hijack host cellular machinery for replication. DNA bacteriophages employ single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) or double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genomes. These phages exhibit diverse replication strategies and host interactions, influencing their ecological roles and applications in biotechnology and medicine.ssDNA BacteriophagesssDNA phages, with their small genomes, utilize unique strategies to...
    Archaeal Cell Wall01:29

    Archaeal Cell Wall

    Archaeal cell walls are structurally and compositionally distinct from their bacterial counterparts, lacking the characteristic peptidoglycan layer found in most bacteria. Instead, archaeal cell walls exhibit remarkable diversity, utilizing materials such as pseudomurein, polysaccharides, and proteins to construct their protective outer layers. This structural flexibility is closely tied to archaea's ecological adaptability.S-Layers: The Common Archaeal Cell WallThe S-layer is the most...
    Streptococcal Pharyngitis01:27

    Streptococcal Pharyngitis

    Streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly known as “strep throat,” is an acute infection of the oropharyngeal tissues caused by the Gram‑positive Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). Transmission occurs primarily through respiratory droplets expelled during coughing, sneezing, or talking.Mechanisms of Host Entry and Immune EvasionUpon entering the host, S. pyogenes adheres to the mucosal epithelial cells of the pharynx via surface proteins, notably lipoteichoic acid and the antiphagocytic...
    Inhibitors of Gram-positive Cell Wall Synthesis01:23

    Inhibitors of Gram-positive Cell Wall Synthesis

    Bacterial cell walls are typically rigid structures composed mainly of peptidoglycan, a mesh-like polymer that provides mechanical strength and maintains cell shape. The synthesis of peptidoglycan is a crucial process in bacterial growth and serves as a primary target for many antibiotics.Mechanism of Action of Beta-Lactam AntibioticsBeta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillin, inhibit peptidoglycan synthesis in actively growing cells. These antibiotics share a characteristic four-membered...