Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Determination of the Optimal Chromosomal Location(s) for a DNA Element in Escherichia coli Using a Novel Transposon-mediated Approach
Published on: September 11, 2017
Towards understanding the molecular basis of bacterial DNA segregation
Thomas A Leonard1, Jakob Møller-Jensen, Jan Löwe
1MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QH, UK. tleonard@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk
Abstract:
Bacteria ensure the fidelity of genetic inheritance by the coordinated control of chromosome segregation and cell division. Here, we review the molecules and mechanisms that govern the correct subcellular positioning and rapid separation of newly replicated chromosomes and plasmids towards the cell poles and, significantly, the emergence of mitotic-like machineries capable of segregating plasmid DNA. We further describe surprising similarities between proteins involved in DNA partitioning (ParA/ParB) and control of cell division (MinD/MinE), suggesting a mechanism for intracellular positioning common to the two processes. Finally, we discuss the role that the bacterial cytoskeleton plays in DNA partitioning and the missing link between prokaryotes and eukaryotes that is bacterial mechano-chemical motor proteins.
Related Concept Videos
Modern Molecular Taxonomy
Replication in Prokaryotes
Many Proteins Work Together to Replicate the Chromosome
Replication is coordinated and carried out by a host of specialized...
Replication in Prokaryotes
Binary Fission
Binary Fission
DNA as a Genetic Template

