Does the shape of MinD concentration gradient during oscillations matter in living E. coli?

Binary fission in Escherichia coli cells is assisted by the Min system. About 25 years ago, fluorescence microscopy revealed MinD’s localization as a horseshoe-shaped polar zone that oscillates between cell poles. While biochemical studies continued to reveal molecular details, physicists developed mathematical models to explain how this oscillatory process establishes a time-averaged MinD gradient in E. coli. The early models, built with limited experimental data to outline reaction steps and identify and predict key parameters, have captured the essential elements of oscillation dynamics. Another milestone was to bring the Min system into the field of synthetic biology, highlighting its robustness and allowing detailed investigation of the physicochemical properties. Due to the inherent complexity of living systems, questions remain regarding the differences in Min oscillations within a cellular context. This talk will discuss the plasticity of MinD concentration gradients that arises from molecular interactions and diffusion in the system as cells elongate.