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Divided genomes: negotiating the cell cycle in prokaryotes with multiple chromosomes
Elizabeth S Egan1, Michael A Fogel, Matthew K Waldor
1Genetics Program, Tufts University School of Medicine and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, 136 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
Molecular Microbiology
|May 11, 2005
Summary
Prokaryotic genomes can have multiple chromosomes, challenging the single replicon assumption. This review explores replication, segregation, evolution, and stability of these complex microbial genomes, focusing on Vibrio cholerae.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Prokaryotic genomes were traditionally considered single circular replicons.
- Recent microbial genome sequencing reveals multipartite genomes (multiple chromosomes) are common in prokaryotes.
- Chromosomes differ from plasmids by essential genes and cell cycle-linked replication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the implications of multipartite genomes in prokaryotes.
- To address questions about replication and segregation of multiple chromosomes.
- To discuss chromosome evolution and genome stability in prokaryotes, using Vibrio cholerae as a model.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
- It discusses theoretical and observed aspects of microbial genome organization.
- Focuses on comparative genomics and cell cycle studies.
Main Results:
- Multipartite genomes are a significant finding in prokaryotic genomics.
- Replication and segregation mechanisms for multiple chromosomes are complex.
- Prokaryotic genome structure impacts evolution and stability.
Conclusions:
- The existence of multipartite genomes necessitates a re-evaluation of prokaryotic genome models.
- Understanding these complex genomes is crucial for microbial evolution and pathogenesis.
- Vibrio cholerae serves as a key example for studying multipartite genome dynamics.