The ABC's of Cell Division
Subtitle: Regulation of Peptidoglycan Amidase Activity During Cytokinesis in Escherichia coli
Contributors: Goldberg, Marcia B.; Dove, Simon L.; Rudner, David Z.; Laub, Michael T.
Published: 2012
Language: eng
Description: The bacterial cell wall, composed of peptidoglycan (PG), is an essential component of the cell envelope. This macromolecular structure fortifies the cell membrane, determines cell shape, and helps prevent osmotic lysis. The synthesis and remodeling/recycling of this polymer is mediated by PG synthases and hydrolases, respectively. Proper control of the PG hydrolases is particularly important since misregulation of these enzymes can lead to lethal breaches in the cell wall. Surprisingly, however, the precise molecular mechanisms governing the activities of these enzymes remain poorly understood.
Notes: Keywords: amidase, cell division, cell envelope, cytokinesis, morphogenesis, peptidoglycan.

Thesis Ph.D. Harvard University 2012