The SMC complex MukBEF recruits topoisomerase IV to the origin of replication region in live Escherichia coli

Spatio-temporal organization of the E. coli chromosome from base to cellular length scales

Escherichia coli has been a vital model organism for studying chromosomal structure, thanks, in part, to its small and circular genome (4.6 million base pairs) and well-characterized biochemical pathways. Over the last several decades, we have made considerable progress in understanding the intricacies of the structure and subsequent function of the E. coli nucleoid. At the smallest scale, DNA, with no physical constraints, takes on a shape reminiscent of a randomly twisted cable, forming mostly random coils but partly affected by its stiffness. This ball-of-spaghetti-like shape forms a structure several times too large to fit into the cell. Once the physiological constraints of the cell are added, the DNA takes on overtwisted (negatively supercoiled) structures, which are shaped by an intricate interplay of many proteins carrying out essential biological processes. At shorter length scales (up to about 1 kb), nucleoid-associated proteins organize and condense the chromosome by inducing loops, bends, and forming bridges. Zooming out further and including cellular processes, topological domains are formed, which are flanked by supercoiling barriers. At the megabase-scale both large, highly self-interacting regions (macrodomains) and strong contacts between distant but co-regulated genes have been observed. At the largest scale, the nucleoid forms a helical ellipsoid. In this review, we will explore the history and recent advances that pave the way for a better understanding of E. coli chromosome organization and structure, discussing the cellular processes that drive changes in DNA shape, and what contributes to compaction and formation of dynamic structures, and in turn how bacterial chromatin affects key processes such as transcription and replication.

Bacterial nucleoid is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma

Bacterial chromosome, the nucleoid, is traditionally modeled as a rosette of DNA mega-loops, organized around proteinaceous central scaffold by nucleoid-associated proteins (NAPs), and mixed with the cytoplasm by transcription and translation. Electron microscopy of fixed cells confirms dispersal of the cloud-like nucleoid within the ribosome-filled cytoplasm. Here, I discuss evidence that the nucleoid in live cells forms DNA phase separate from riboprotein phase, the "riboid." I argue that the nucleoid-riboid interphase, where DNA interacts with NAPs, transcribing RNA polymerases, nascent transcripts, and ssRNA chaperones, forms the transcription zone. An active part of phase separation, transcription zone enforces segregation of the centrally positioned information phase (the nucleoid) from the surrounding action phase (the riboid), where translation happens, protein accumulates, and metabolism occurs. I speculate that HU NAP mostly tiles up the nucleoid periphery-facilitating DNA mobility but also supporting transcription in the interphase. Besides extruding plectonemically supercoiled DNA mega-loops, condensins could compact them into solenoids of uniform rings, while HU could support rigidity and rotation of these DNA rings. The two-phase cytoplasm arrangement allows the bacterial cell to organize the central dogma activities, where (from the cell center to its periphery) DNA replicates and segregates, DNA is transcribed, nascent mRNA is handed over to ribosomes, mRNA is translated into proteins, and finally, the used mRNA is recycled into nucleotides at the inner membrane. The resulting information-action conveyor, with one activity naturally leading to the next one, explains the efficiency of prokaryotic cell design-even though its main intracellular transportation mode is free diffusion.

Macromolecular Crowding, Phase Separation, and Homeostasis in the Orchestration of Bacterial Cellular Functions

Macromolecular crowding affects the activity of proteins and functional macromolecular complexes in all cells, including bacteria. Crowding, together with physicochemical parameters such as pH, ionic strength, and the energy status, influences the structure of the cytoplasm and thereby indirectly macromolecular function. Notably, crowding also promotes the formation of biomolecular condensates by phase separation, initially identified in eukaryotic cells but more recently discovered to play key functions in bacteria. Bacterial cells require a variety of mechanisms to maintain physicochemical homeostasis, in particular in environments with fluctuating conditions, and the formation of biomolecular condensates is emerging as one such mechanism. In this work, we connect physicochemical homeostasis and macromolecular crowding with the formation and function of biomolecular condensates in the bacterial cell and compare the supramolecular structures found in bacteria with those of eukaryotic cells. We focus on the effects of crowding and phase separation on the control of bacterial chromosome replication, segregation, and cell division, and we discuss the contribution of biomolecular condensates to bacterial cell fitness and adaptation to environmental stress.

DNA Segregation in Enterobacteria

DNA segregation ensures that cell offspring receive at least one copy of each DNA molecule, or replicon, after their replication. This important cellular process includes different phases leading to the physical separation of the replicons and their movement toward the future daughter cells. Here, we review these phases and processes in enterobacteria with emphasis on the molecular mechanisms at play and their controls.

Mid-cell migration of the chromosomal terminus is coupled to origin segregation in Escherichia coli

Bacterial chromosomes are dynamically and spatially organised within cells. In slow-growing Escherichia coli, the chromosomal terminus is initially located at the new pole and must therefore migrate to midcell during replication to reproduce the same pattern in the daughter cells. Here, we use high-throughput time-lapse microscopy to quantify this transition, its timing and its relationship to chromosome segregation. We find that terminus centralisation is a rapid discrete event that occurs ~25 min after initial separation of duplicated origins and ~50 min before the onset of bulk nucleoid segregation but with substantial variation between cells. Despite this variation, its movement is tightly coincident with the completion of origin segregation, even in the absence of its linkage to the divisome, suggesting a coupling between these two events. Indeed, we find that terminus centralisation does not occur if origin segregation away from mid-cell is disrupted, which results in daughter cells having an inverted chromosome organisation. Overall, our study quantifies the choreography of origin-terminus positioning and identifies an unexplored connection between these loci, furthering our understanding of chromosome segregation in this bacterium.

Insights in bacterial genome folding

Chromosomes in all domains of life are well-defined structural entities with complex hierarchical organization. The regulation of this hierarchical organization and its functional interplay with gene expression or other chromosome metabolic processes such as repair, replication, or segregation is actively investigated in a variety of species, including prokaryotes. Bacterial chromosomes are typically gene-dense with few non-coding sequences and are organized into the nucleoid, a membrane-less compartment composed of DNA, RNA, and proteins (nucleoid-associated proteins or NAPs). The continuous improvement of imaging and genomic methods has put the organization of these Mb-long molecules at reach, allowing to disambiguate some of their highly dynamic properties and intertwined structural features. Here we review and discuss some of the recent advances in the field of bacterial chromosome organization.

Single-nucleotide resolution detection of Topo IV cleavage activity in the Escherichia coli genome with Topo-Seq

Topoisomerase IV (Topo IV) is the main decatenation enzyme in Escherichia coli; it removes catenation links that are formed during DNA replication. Topo IV binding and cleavage sites were previously identified in the E. coli genome with ChIP-Seq and NorfIP. Here, we used a more sensitive, single-nucleotide resolution Topo-Seq procedure to identify Topo IV cleavage sites (TCSs) genome-wide. We detected thousands of TCSs scattered in the bacterial genome. The determined cleavage motif of Topo IV contained previously known cleavage determinants (−4G/+8C, −2A/+6 T, −1 T/+5A) and additional, not observed previously, positions −7C/+11G and −6C/+10G. TCSs were depleted in the Ter macrodomain except for two exceptionally strong non-canonical cleavage sites located in 33 and 38 bp from the XerC-box of the dif-site. Topo IV cleavage activity was increased in Left and Right macrodomains flanking the Ter macrodomain and was especially high in the 50–60 kb region containing the oriC origin of replication. Topo IV enrichment was also increased downstream of highly active transcription units, indicating that the enzyme is involved in relaxation of transcription-induced positive supercoiling.

Bacterial filaments recover by successive and accelerated asymmetric divisions that allow rapid post-stress cell proliferation

Filamentation is a reversible morphological change triggered in response to various stresses that bacteria might encounter in the environment, during host infection or antibiotic treatments. Here we re-visit the dynamics of filament formation and recovery using a consistent framework based on live-cells microscopy. We compare the fate of filamentous Escherichia coli induced by cephalexin that inhibits cell division or by UV-induced DNA-damage that additionally perturbs chromosome segregation. We show that both filament types recover by successive and accelerated rounds of divisions that preferentially occur at the filaments' tip, thus resulting in the rapid production of multiple daughter cells with tightly regulated size. The DNA content, viability and further division of the daughter cells essentially depends on the coordination between chromosome segregation and division within the mother filament. Septum positioning at the filaments' tip depends on the Min system, while the nucleoid occlusion protein SlmA regulates the timing of division to prevent septum closure on unsegregated chromosomes. Our results not only recapitulate earlier conclusions but provide a higher level of detail regarding filaments division and the fate of the daughter cells. Together with previous reports, this work uncovers how filamentation recovery allows for a rapid cell proliferation after stress treatment.

The cohesin complex of yeasts: sister chromatid cohesion and beyond

Each time a cell divides, it needs to duplicate the genome and then separate the two copies. In eukaryotes, which usually have more than one linear chromosome, this entails tethering the two newly replicated DNA molecules, a phenomenon known as sister chromatid cohesion (SCC). Cohesion ensures proper chromosome segregation to separate poles during mitosis. SCC is achieved by the presence of the cohesin complex. Besides its canonical function, cohesin is essential for chromosome organization and DNA damage repair. Surprisingly, yeast cohesin is loaded in G1 before DNA replication starts but only acquires its binding activity during DNA replication. Work in microorganisms, such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe has greatly contributed to the understanding of cohesin composition and functions. In the last few years, much progress has been made in elucidating the role of cohesin in chromosome organization and compaction. Here, we discuss the different functions of cohesin to ensure faithful chromosome segregation and genome stability during the mitotic cell division in yeast. We describe what is known about its composition and how DNA replication is coupled with SCC establishment. We also discuss current models for the role of cohesin in chromatin loop extrusion and delineate unanswered questions about the activity of this important, conserved complex.

MukBEF-dependent chromosomal organization in widened Escherichia coli

The bacterial chromosome is spatially organized through protein-mediated compaction, supercoiling, and cell-boundary confinement. Structural Maintenance of Chromosomes (SMC) complexes are a major class of chromosome-organizing proteins present throughout all domains of life. Here, we study the role of the Escherichia coli SMC complex MukBEF in chromosome architecture and segregation. Using quantitative live-cell imaging of shape-manipulated cells, we show that MukBEF is crucial to preserve the toroidal topology of the Escherichia coli chromosome and that it is non-uniformly distributed along the chromosome: it prefers locations toward the origin and away from the terminus of replication, and it is unevenly distributed over the origin of replication along the two chromosome arms. Using an ATP hydrolysis-deficient MukB mutant, we confirm that MukBEF translocation along the chromosome is ATP-dependent, in contrast to its loading onto DNA. MukBEF and MatP are furthermore found to be essential for sister chromosome decatenation. We propose a model that explains how MukBEF, MatP, and their interacting partners organize the chromosome and contribute to sister segregation. The combination of bacterial cell-shape modification and quantitative fluorescence microscopy paves way to investigating chromosome-organization factors in vivo.

Topoisomerases I and II facilitate condensin DC translocation to organize and repress X chromosomes in C. elegans

Condensins are evolutionarily conserved molecular motors that translocate along DNA and form loops. To address how DNA topology affects condensin translocation, we applied auxin-inducible degradation of topoisomerases I and II and analyzed the binding and function of an interphase condensin that mediates X chromosome dosage compensation in C. elegans. TOP-2 depletion reduced long-range spreading of condensin-DC (dosage compensation) from its recruitment sites and shortened 3D DNA contacts measured by Hi-C. TOP-1 depletion did not affect long-range spreading but resulted in condensin-DC accumulation within expressed gene bodies. Both TOP-1 and TOP-2 depletion resulted in X chromosome derepression, indicating that condensin-DC translocation at both scales is required for its function. Together, the distinct effects of TOP-1 and TOP-2 suggest two distinct modes of condensin-DC association with chromatin: long-range DNA loop extrusion that requires decatenation/unknotting of DNA and short-range translocation across genes that requires resolution of transcription-induced supercoiling.

Intersubunit and intrasubunit interactions driving the MukBEF ATPase

MukBEF, a structural maintenance of chromosome-like protein complex consisting of an ATPase, MukB, and two interacting subunits, MukE and MukF, functions as the bacterial condensin. It is likely that MukBEF compacts DNA via an ATP hydrolysis-dependent DNA loop-extrusion reaction similar to that demonstrated for the yeast structural maintenance of chromosome proteins condensin and cohesin. MukB also interacts with the ParC subunit of the cellular chromosomal decatenase topoisomerase IV, an interaction that is required for proper chromosome condensation and segregation in Escherichia coli, although it suppresses the MukB ATPase activity. Other structural determinants and interactions that regulate the ATPase activity of MukBEF are not clear. Here, we have investigated the MukBEF ATPase activity, identifying intersubunit and intrasubunit interactions by protein-protein crosslinking and site-specific mutagenesis. We show that interactions between the hinge of MukB and its neck region are essential for the ATPase activity, that the ParC subunit of topoisomerase IV inhibits the MukB ATPase by preventing this interaction, that MukE interaction with DNA is likely essential for viability, and that interactions between MukF and the MukB neck region are necessary for ATPase activity and viability.

Extended sister-chromosome catenation leads to massive reorganization of the E. coli genome

In bacteria, chromosome segregation occurs progressively from the origin to terminus within minutes of replication of each locus. Between replication and segregation, sister loci are held in an apparent cohesive state by topological links. The decatenation activity of topoisomerase IV (Topo IV) is required for segregation of replicated loci, yet little is known about the structuring of the chromosome maintained in a cohesive state. In this work, we investigated chromosome folding in cells with altered decatenation activities. Within minutes after Topo IV inactivation, massive chromosome reorganization occurs, associated with increased in contacts between nearby loci, likely trans-contacts between sister chromatids, and in long-range contacts between the terminus and distant loci. We deciphered the respective roles of Topo III, MatP and MukB when TopoIV activity becomes limiting. Topo III reduces short-range inter-sister contacts suggesting its activity near replication forks. MatP, the terminus macrodomain organizing system, and MukB, the Escherichia coli SMC, promote long-range contacts with the terminus. We propose that the large-scale conformational changes observed under these conditions reveal defective decatenation attempts involving the terminus area. Our results support a model of spatial and temporal partitioning of the tasks required for sister chromosome segregation.

Topoisomerase VI is a chirally-selective, preferential DNA decatenase

DNA topoisomerase VI (topo VI) is a type IIB DNA topoisomerase found predominantly in archaea and some bacteria, but also in plants and algae. Since its discovery, topo VI has been proposed to be a DNA decatenase; however, robust evidence and a mechanism for its preferential decatenation activity was lacking. Using single-molecule magnetic tweezers measurements and supporting ensemble biochemistry, we demonstrate that Methanosarcina mazei topo VI preferentially unlinks, or decatenates DNA crossings, in comparison to relaxing supercoils, through a preference for certain DNA crossing geometries. In addition, topo VI demonstrates a significant increase in ATPase activity, DNA binding and rate of strand passage, with increasing DNA writhe, providing further evidence that topo VI is a DNA crossing sensor. Our study strongly suggests that topo VI has evolved an intrinsic preference for the unknotting and decatenation of interlinked chromosomes by sensing and preferentially unlinking DNA crossings with geometries close to 90°.

Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching (FRAP) to Study Dynamics of the Structural Maintenance of Chromosome (SMC) Complex in Live Escherichia coli Bacteria

MukBEF, a structural maintenance of chromosome (SMC) complex, is an important molecular machine for chromosome organization and segregation in Escherichia coli. Fluorescently tagged MukBEF forms distinct spots (or "foci") composed of molecular assemblies in the cell, where it is thought to carry out most of its chromosome-associated activities. Here, we outline the technique of fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) as a method to study the properties of YFP-tagged MukB in fluorescent foci. This method can provide important insight into the dynamics of MukB on DNA and be used to study its biochemical properties in vivo.

Crystal structure of the chromosome partition protein MukE homodimer

The SMC (structural maintenance of chromosomes) proteins are known to be involved in chromosome pairing or aggregation and play an important role in cell cycle and division. Different from SMC-ScpAB complex maintaining chromosome structure in most bacteria, the MukB-MukE-MukF complex is responsible for chromosome condensation in E. coli and some γ-proteobacter. Though different models were proposed to illustrate the mechanism of how the MukBEF complex worked, the assembly of the MukBEF complex is a key. The MukE dimer interacted with the middle region of one MukF molecule, and was clamped by the N- and C-terminal domain of the latter, and then was involved in the interaction with the head domain of MukB. To reveal the structural basis of MukE involved in the dynamic equilibrium of potential different MukBEF assemblies, we determined the MukE structure at 2.44 Å resolution. We found that the binding cavity for the α10, β4 and β5 of MukF (residues 296-327) in the MukE dimer has been occupied by the α9 and β7 strand of MukE. We proposed that the highly dynamic C-terminal region (173-225) was important for the MukE-F assembly and then involved in the MukBEF complex formation.

The MukB-topoisomerase IV interaction mutually suppresses their catalytic activities

The bacterial condensin MukB and the cellular chromosomal decatenase, topoisomerase IV interact and this interaction is required for proper condensation and topological ordering of the chromosome. Here, we show that Topo IV stimulates MukB DNA condensation by stabilizing loops in DNA: MukB alone can condense nicked plasmid DNA into a protein–DNA complex that has greater electrophoretic mobility than that of the DNA alone, but both MukB and Topo IV are required for a similar condensation of a linear DNA representing long stretches of the chromosome. Remarkably, we show that rather than MukB stimulating the decatenase activity of Topo IV, as has been argued previously, in stoichiometric complexes of the two enzymes each inhibits the activity of the other: the ParC subunit of Topo IV inhibits the MukF-stimulated ATPase activity of MukB and MukB inhibits both DNA crossover trapping and DNA cleavage by Topo IV. These observations suggest that when in complex on the DNA, Topo IV inhibits the motor function of MukB and the two proteins provide a stable scaffold for chromosomal DNA condensation.

Competitive binding of MatP and topoisomerase IV to the MukB hinge domain

Structural Maintenance of Chromosomes (SMC) complexes have ubiquitous roles in compacting DNA linearly, thereby promoting chromosome organization-segregation. Interaction between the Escherichia coli SMC complex, MukBEF, and matS-bound MatP in the chromosome replication termination region, ter, results in depletion of MukBEF from ter, a process essential for efficient daughter chromosome individualization and for preferential association of MukBEF with the replication origin region. Chromosome-associated MukBEF complexes also interact with topoisomerase IV (ParC₂E₂), so that their chromosome distribution mirrors that of MukBEF. We demonstrate that MatP and ParC have an overlapping binding interface on the MukB hinge, leading to their mutually exclusive binding, which occurs with the same dimer to dimer stoichiometry. Furthermore, we show that matS DNA competes with the MukB hinge for MatP binding. Cells expressing MukBEF complexes that are mutated at the ParC/MatP binding interface are impaired in ParC binding and have a mild defect in MukBEF function. These data highlight competitive binding as a means of globally regulating MukBEF-topoisomerase IV activity in space and time.

What makes a type IIA topoisomerase a gyrase or a Topo IV?

Type IIA topoisomerases catalyze a variety of different reactions: eukaryotic topoisomerase II relaxes DNA in an ATP-dependent reaction, whereas the bacterial representatives gyrase and topoisomerase IV (Topo IV) preferentially introduce negative supercoils into DNA (gyrase) or decatenate DNA (Topo IV). Gyrase and Topo IV perform separate, dedicated tasks during replication: gyrase removes positive supercoils in front, Topo IV removes pre-catenanes behind the replication fork. Despite their well-separated cellular functions, gyrase and Topo IV have an overlapping activity spectrum: gyrase is also able to catalyze DNA decatenation, although less efficiently than Topo IV. The balance between supercoiling and decatenation activities is different for gyrases from different organisms. Both enzymes consist of a conserved topoisomerase core and structurally divergent C-terminal domains (CTDs). Deletion of the entire CTD, mutation of a conserved motif and even by just a single point mutation within the CTD converts gyrase into a Topo IV-like enzyme, implicating the CTDs as the major determinant for function. Here, we summarize the structural and mechanistic features that make a type IIA topoisomerase a gyrase or a Topo IV, and discuss the implications for type IIA topoisomerase evolution.

Mechanisms for Chromosome Segregation in Bacteria

The process of DNA segregation, the redistribution of newly replicated genomic material to daughter cells, is a crucial step in the life cycle of all living systems. Here, we review DNA segregation in bacteria which evolved a variety of mechanisms for partitioning newly replicated DNA. Bacterial species such as Caulobacter crescentus and Bacillus subtilis contain pushing and pulling mechanisms that exert forces and directionality to mediate the moving of newly synthesized chromosomes to the bacterial poles. Other bacteria such as Escherichia coli lack such active segregation systems, yet exhibit a spontaneous de-mixing of chromosomes due to entropic forces as DNA is being replicated under the confinement of the cell wall. Furthermore, we present a synopsis of the main players that contribute to prokaryotic genome segregation. We finish with emphasizing the importance of bottom-up approaches for the investigation of the various factors that contribute to genome segregation.

DNA topoisomerases: Advances in understanding of cellular roles and multi-protein complexes via structure-function analysis

DNA topoisomerases, capable of manipulating DNA topology, are ubiquitous and indispensable for cellular survival due to the numerous roles they play during DNA metabolism. As we review here, current structural approaches have revealed unprecedented insights into the complex DNA-topoisomerase interaction and strand passage mechanism, helping to advance our understanding of their activities in vivo. This has been complemented by single-molecule techniques, which have facilitated the detailed dissection of the various topoisomerase reactions. Recent work has also revealed the importance of topoisomerase interactions with accessory proteins and other DNA-associated proteins, supporting the idea that they often function as part of multi-enzyme assemblies in vivo. In addition, novel topoisomerases have been identified and explored, such as topo VIII and Mini-A. These new findings are advancing our understanding of DNA-related processes and the vital functions topos fulfil, demonstrating their indispensability in virtually every aspect of DNA metabolism.

Topoisomerase IV tracks behind the replication fork and the SeqA complex during DNA replication in Escherichia coli

Topoisomerase IV (TopoIV) is a vital bacterial enzyme which disentangles newly replicated DNA and enables segregation of daughter chromosomes. In bacteria, DNA replication and segregation are concurrent processes. This means that TopoIV must continually remove inter-DNA linkages during replication. There exists a short time lag of about 10–20 min between replication and segregation in which the daughter chromosomes are intertwined. Exactly where TopoIV binds during the cell cycle has been the subject of much debate. We show here that TopoIV localizes to the origin proximal side of the fork trailing protein SeqA and follows the movement pattern of the replication machinery in the cell.

Chromosome Segregation in Bacillus subtilis Follows an Overall Pattern of Linear Movement and Is Highly Robust against Cell Cycle Perturbations

We have followed the segregation of origin regions on the Bacillus subtilis chromosome in the fastest practically achievable temporal manner, for a large fraction of the cell cycle. We show that segregation occurred in highly variable patterns but overall in an almost linear manner throughout the cell cycle. Segregation was slowed down, but not arrested, by treatment of cells that led to transient blocks in DNA replication, showing that segregation is highly robust against cell cycle perturbation. Computer simulations based on entropy-driven separation of newly synthesized DNA polymers can recapitulate sudden bursts of movement and segregation patterns compatible with the observed in vivo patterns, indicating that for Bacillus, segregation patterns may include entropic forces helping to separate chromosomes during the cell cycle.

Although several proteins have been identified that facilitate chromosome segregation in bacteria, no clear analogue of the mitotic machinery in eukaryotic cells has been identified. In order to investigate if recognizable patterns of segregation exist during the cell cycle, we tracked the segregation of duplicated origin regions in Bacillus subtilis for 60 min in the fastest practically achievable resolution, achieving 10-s intervals. We found that while separation occurred in random patterns, often including backwards movement, overall, segregation of loci near the origins of replication was linear for the entire cell cycle. Thus, the process of partitioning can be best described as directed motion. Simulations with entropy-driven separation of polymers synthesized by two polymerases show sudden bursts of movement and segregation patterns compatible with the observed in vivo patterns, showing that for Bacillus, segregation patterns can be modeled based on entropic forces. To test if obstacles for replication forks lead to an alteration of the partitioning pattern, we challenged cells with chemicals inducing DNA damage or blocking of topoisomerase activity. Both treatments led to a moderate slowing down of separation, but linear segregation was retained, showing that chromosome segregation is highly robust against cell cycle perturbation.

IMPORTANCE We have followed the segregation of origin regions on the Bacillus subtilis chromosome in the fastest practically achievable temporal manner, for a large fraction of the cell cycle. We show that segregation occurred in highly variable patterns but overall in an almost linear manner throughout the cell cycle. Segregation was slowed down, but not arrested, by treatment of cells that led to transient blocks in DNA replication, showing that segregation is highly robust against cell cycle perturbation. Computer simulations based on entropy-driven separation of newly synthesized DNA polymers can recapitulate sudden bursts of movement and segregation patterns compatible with the observed in vivo patterns, indicating that for Bacillus, segregation patterns may include entropic forces helping to separate chromosomes during the cell cycle.

Architecture of the Escherichia coli nucleoid

How genomes are organized within cells and how the 3D architecture of a genome influences cellular functions are significant questions in biology. A bacterial genomic DNA resides inside cells in a highly condensed and functionally organized form called nucleoid (nucleus-like structure without a nuclear membrane). The Escherichia coli chromosome or nucleoid is composed of the genomic DNA, RNA, and protein. The nucleoid forms by condensation and functional arrangement of a single chromosomal DNA with the help of chromosomal architectural proteins and RNA molecules as well as DNA supercoiling. Although a high-resolution structure of a bacterial nucleoid is yet to come, five decades of research has established the following salient features of the E. coli nucleoid elaborated below: 1) The chromosomal DNA is on the average a negatively supercoiled molecule that is folded as plectonemic loops, which are confined into many independent topological domains due to supercoiling diffusion barriers; 2) The loops spatially organize into megabase size regions called macrodomains, which are defined by more frequent physical interactions among DNA sites within the same macrodomain than between different macrodomains; 3) The condensed and spatially organized DNA takes the form of a helical ellipsoid radially confined in the cell; and 4) The DNA in the chromosome appears to have a condition-dependent 3-D structure that is linked to gene expression so that the nucleoid architecture and gene transcription are tightly interdependent, influencing each other reciprocally. Current advents of high-resolution microscopy, single-molecule analysis and molecular structure determination of the components are expected to reveal the total structure and function of the bacterial nucleoid.

Dynamic architecture of the Escherichia coli structural maintenance of chromosomes (SMC) complex, MukBEF

Ubiquitous Structural Maintenance of Chromosomes (SMC) complexes use a proteinaceous ring-shaped architecture to organize and individualize chromosomes, thereby facilitating chromosome segregation. They utilize cycles of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) binding and hydrolysis to transport themselves rapidly with respect to DNA, a process requiring protein conformational changes and multiple DNA contact sites. By analysing changes in the architecture and stoichiometry of the Escherichia coli SMC complex, MukBEF, as a function of nucleotide binding to MukB and subsequent ATP hydrolysis, we demonstrate directly the formation of dimer of MukBEF dimer complexes, dependent on dimeric MukF kleisin. Using truncated and full length MukB, in combination with MukEF, we show that engagement of the MukB ATPase heads on nucleotide binding directs the formation of dimers of heads-engaged dimer complexes. Complex formation requires functional interactions between the C- and N-terminal domains of MukF with the MukB head and neck, respectively, and MukE, which organizes the complexes by stabilizing binding of MukB heads to MukF. In the absence of head engagement, a MukF dimer bound by MukE forms complexes containing only a dimer of MukB. Finally, we demonstrate that cells expressing MukBEF complexes in which MukF is monomeric are Muk⁻, with the complexes failing to associate with chromosomes.

Single-molecule imaging of DNA gyrase activity in living Escherichia coli

Bacterial DNA gyrase introduces negative supercoils into chromosomal DNA and relaxes positive supercoils introduced by replication and transiently by transcription. Removal of these positive supercoils is essential for replication fork progression and for the overall unlinking of the two duplex DNA strands, as well as for ongoing transcription. To address how gyrase copes with these topological challenges, we used high-speed single-molecule fluorescence imaging in live Escherichia coli cells. We demonstrate that at least 300 gyrase molecules are stably bound to the chromosome at any time, with ∼12 enzymes enriched near each replication fork. Trapping of reaction intermediates with ciprofloxacin revealed complexes undergoing catalysis. Dwell times of ∼2 s were observed for the dispersed gyrase molecules, which we propose maintain steady-state levels of negative supercoiling of the chromosome. In contrast, the dwell time of replisome-proximal molecules was ∼8 s, consistent with these catalyzing processive positive supercoil relaxation in front of the progressing replisome.

Self-organised segregation of bacterial chromosomal origins

The chromosomal replication origin region (ori) of characterised bacteria is dynamically positioned throughout the cell cycle. In slowly growing Escherichia coli, ori is maintained at mid-cell from birth until its replication, after which newly replicated sister oris move to opposite quarter positions. Here, we provide an explanation for ori positioning based on the self-organisation of the Structural Maintenance of Chromosomes complex, MukBEF, which forms dynamically positioned clusters on the chromosome. We propose that a non-trivial feedback between the self-organising gradient of MukBEF complexes and the oris leads to accurate ori positioning. We find excellent agreement with quantitative experimental measurements and confirm key predictions. Specifically, we show that oris exhibit biased motion towards MukBEF clusters, rather than mid-cell. Our findings suggest that MukBEF and oris act together as a self-organising system in chromosome organisation-segregation and introduces protein self-organisation as an important consideration for future studies of chromosome dynamics.

Functional Modules of Minimal Cell Division for Synthetic Biology

Cellular reproduction is one of the fundamental hallmarks of life. Therefore, the development of a minimal division machinery capable of proper genome condensation and organization, mid-cell positioning and segregation in space and time, and the final septation process constitute a fundamental challenge for synthetic biology. It is therefore important to be able to engineer such modules for the production of artificial minimal cells. A bottom-up assembly of molecular machines from bulk biochemicals complemented by in vivo experiments as well as computational modelling helps to approach such key cellular processes. Here, minimal functional modules involved in genome segregation and the division machinery and their spatial organization and positioning are reviewed, setting into perspective the design of a minimal cell. Furthermore, the milestones of recent in vitro reconstitution experiments in the context of cell division are discussed and their role in shedding light on fundamental cellular mechanisms that constitute spatiotemporal order is described. Lastly, current challenges in the field of bottom-up synthetic biology as well as possible future developments toward the development of minimal biomimetic systems are discussed.

An integrative view of cell cycle control in Escherichia coli

Bacterial proliferation depends on the cells' capability to proceed through consecutive rounds of the cell cycle. The cell cycle consists of a series of events during which cells grow, copy their genome, partition the duplicated DNA into different cell halves and, ultimately, divide to produce two newly formed daughter cells. Cell cycle control is of the utmost importance to maintain the correct order of events and safeguard the integrity of the cell and its genomic information. This review covers insights into the regulation of individual key cell cycle events in Escherichia coli. The control of initiation of DNA replication, chromosome segregation and cell division is discussed. Furthermore, we highlight connections between these processes. Although detailed mechanistic insight into these connections is largely still emerging, it is clear that the different processes of the bacterial cell cycle are coordinated to one another. This careful coordination of events ensures that every daughter cell ends up with one complete and intact copy of the genome, which is vital for bacterial survival.

MukB ATPases are regulated independently by the N- and C-terminal domains of MukF kleisin

The Escherichia coli SMC complex, MukBEF, acts in chromosome segregation. MukBEF shares the distinctive architecture of other SMC complexes, with one prominent difference; unlike other kleisins, MukF forms dimers through its N-terminal domain. We show that a 4-helix bundle adjacent to the MukF dimerisation domain interacts functionally with the MukB coiled-coiled ‘neck’ adjacent to the ATPase head. We propose that this interaction leads to an asymmetric tripartite complex, as in other SMC complexes. Since MukF dimerisation is preserved during this interaction, MukF directs the formation of dimer of dimer MukBEF complexes, observed previously in vivo. The MukF N- and C-terminal domains stimulate MukB ATPase independently and additively. We demonstrate that impairment of the MukF interaction with MukB in vivo leads to ATP hydrolysis-dependent release of MukBEF complexes from chromosomes.

Most DNA in a cell is arranged in structures called chromosomes. From bacteria to humans, chromosomes have to be compacted and highly organized to allow the cells to maintain and use their genetic information. In all organisms, large ring-shaped protein complexes play a crucial role in managing chromosomes. They transport and organize DNA thanks to reactions whose precise mechanism remains unknown. In bacteria, MukB and a type of kleisin called MukF are two examples of molecules involved in chromosome management.

Two MukBs join at one end to form a hinge; at the other end, each MukB protein has a neck and a head. The two heads are linked by the kleisin to form a large protein ring, which can open to capture DNA. The MukB heads can trigger a biochemical reaction that creates the energy essential to trap and release DNA during DNA transport.

Here, Zawadzka et al. study how the different components of the MukB-kleisin complex interact with each other to undergo the biochemical reactions that lead to DNA transport. The experiments show that the kleisin joins two MukB heads by attaching the base of one to the neck of the other, asymmetrically closing the ring. The separate interactions of different regions of the kleisin to the head and neck of MukB independently activate the two MukB heads, thereby controlling essential steps in the reactions with DNA. Two MukB-kleisin ring complexes are joined to each other because of a tight interaction between the two kleisin molecules. This leads Zawadzka et al. to suggest that DNA is sequentially grabbed and released from these two rings during DNA transport, similar to how a climbing rope is attached and released through carabiners.

Cells cannot survive or be healthy without their chromosomes being accurately managed. It is still unclear how molecules such as MukBs and kleinsins drive this process. A better picture of their structure and interactions is an essential first step to understand these mechanisms.

A Topology-Centric View on Mitotic Chromosome Architecture

Mitotic chromosomes are long-known structures, but their internal organization and the exact process by which they are assembled are still a great mystery in biology. Topoisomerase II is crucial for various aspects of mitotic chromosome organization. The unique ability of this enzyme to untangle topologically intertwined DNA molecules (catenations) is of utmost importance for the resolution of sister chromatid intertwines. Although still controversial, topoisomerase II has also been proposed to directly contribute to chromosome compaction, possibly by promoting chromosome self-entanglements. These two functions raise a strong directionality issue towards topoisomerase II reactions that are able to disentangle sister DNA molecules (in trans) while compacting the same DNA molecule (in cis). Here, we review the current knowledge on topoisomerase II role specifically during mitosis, and the mechanisms that directly or indirectly regulate its activity to ensure faithful chromosome segregation. In particular, we discuss how the activity or directionality of this enzyme could be regulated by the SMC (structural maintenance of chromosomes) complexes, predominantly cohesin and condensin, throughout mitosis.

The MukB-topoisomerase IV interaction is required for proper chromosome compaction

The bacterial condensin MukB and the cellular decatenating enzyme topoisomerase IV interact. This interaction stimulates intramolecular reactions catalyzed by topoisomerase IV, supercoiled DNA relaxation, and DNA knotting but not intermolecular reactions such as decatenation of linked DNAs. We have demonstrated previously that MukB condenses DNA by sequestering negative supercoils and stabilizing topologically isolated loops in the DNA. We show here that the MukB-topoisomerase IV interaction stabilizes MukB on DNA, increasing the extent of DNA condensation without increasing the amount of MukB bound to the DNA. This effect does not require the catalytic activity of topoisomerase IV. Cells carrying a mukB mutant allele that encodes a protein that does not interact with topoisomerase IV exhibit severe nucleoid decompaction leading to chromosome segregation defects. These findings suggest that the MukB-topoisomerase IV complex may provide a scaffold for DNA condensation.

Bacterial chromosome organization and segregation

If fully stretched out, a typical bacterial chromosome would be nearly 1 mm long, approximately 1,000 times the length of a cell. Not only must cells massively compact their genetic material, but they must also organize their DNA in a manner that is compatible with a range of cellular processes, including DNA replication, DNA repair, homologous recombination, and horizontal gene transfer. Recent work, driven in part by technological advances, has begun to reveal the general principles of chromosome organization in bacteria. Here, drawing on studies of many different organisms, we review the emerging picture of how bacterial chromosomes are structured at multiple length scales, highlighting the functions of various DNA-binding proteins and the impact of physical forces. Additionally, we discuss the spatial dynamics of chromosomes, particularly during their segregation to daughter cells. Although there has been tremendous progress, we also highlight gaps that remain in understanding chromosome organization and segregation.

Mapping Topoisomerase IV Binding and Activity Sites on the E. coli Genome

Catenation links between sister chromatids are formed progressively during DNA replication and are involved in the establishment of sister chromatid cohesion. Topo IV is a bacterial type II topoisomerase involved in the removal of catenation links both behind replication forks and after replication during the final separation of sister chromosomes. We have investigated the global DNA-binding and catalytic activity of Topo IV in E. coli using genomic and molecular biology approaches. ChIP-seq revealed that Topo IV interaction with the E. coli chromosome is controlled by DNA replication. During replication, Topo IV has access to most of the genome but only selects a few hundred specific sites for its activity. Local chromatin and gene expression context influence site selection. Moreover strong DNA-binding and catalytic activities are found at the chromosome dimer resolution site, dif, located opposite the origin of replication. We reveal a physical and functional interaction between Topo IV and the XerCD recombinases acting at the dif site. This interaction is modulated by MatP, a protein involved in the organization of the Ter macrodomain. These results show that Topo IV, XerCD/dif and MatP are part of a network dedicated to the final step of chromosome management during the cell cycle.

DNA topoisomerases are ubiquitous enzymes that solve the topological problems associated with replication, transcription and recombination. Type II Topoisomerases play a major role in the management of newly replicated DNA. They contribute to the condensation and segregation of chromosomes to the future daughter cells and are essential for the optimal transmission of genetic information. In most bacteria, including the model organism Escherichia coli, these tasks are performed by two enzymes, DNA gyrase and DNA Topoisomerase IV (Topo IV). The distribution of the roles between these enzymes during the cell cycle is not yet completely understood. In the present study we use genomic and molecular biology methods to decipher the regulation of Topo IV during the cell cycle. Here we present data that strongly suggest the interaction of Topo IV with the chromosome is controlled by DNA replication and chromatin factors responsible for its loading to specific regions of the chromosome. In addition, our observations reveal, that by sharing several key factors, the DNA management processes ensuring accuracy of the late steps of chromosome segregation are all interconnected.

Condensin-Based Chromosome Organization from Bacteria to Vertebrates

Condensins are large protein complexes that play a central role in chromosome organization and segregation in the three domains of life. They display highly characteristic, rod-shaped structures with SMC (structural maintenance of chromosomes) ATPases as their core subunits and organize large-scale chromosome structure through active mechanisms. Most eukaryotic species have two distinct condensin complexes whose balanced usage is adapted flexibly to different organisms and cell types. Studies of bacterial condensins provide deep insights into the fundamental mechanisms of chromosome segregation. This Review surveys both conserved features and rich variations of condensin-based chromosome organization and discusses their evolutionary implications.

MatP regulates the coordinated action of topoisomerase IV and MukBEF in chromosome segregation

The Escherichia coli SMC complex, MukBEF, forms clusters of molecules that interact with the decatenase topisomerase IV and which are normally associated with the chromosome replication origin region (ori). Here we demonstrate an additional ATP-hydrolysis-dependent association of MukBEF with the replication termination region (ter). Consistent with this, MukBEF interacts with MatP, which binds matS sites in ter. MatP displaces wild-type MukBEF complexes from ter, thereby facilitating their association with ori, and limiting the availability of topoisomerase IV (TopoIV) at ter. Displacement of MukBEF is impaired when MukB ATP hydrolysis is compromised and when MatP is absent, leading to a stable association of ter and MukBEF. Impairing the TopoIV-MukBEF interaction delays sister ter segregation in cells lacking MatP. We propose that the interplay between MukBEF and MatP directs chromosome organization in relation to MukBEF clusters and associated topisomerase IV, thereby ensuring timely chromosome unlinking and segregation.

MukBEF, the bacterial structural maintenance of chromosomes complex, is known to associate with origins of replication and topoisomerase IV. Here the authors show an association of MukBEF with MatP and replication termination regions, important for proper sister chromatid decatenation and segregation.

Using Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching (FRAP) to Study Dynamics of the Structural Maintenance of Chromosome (SMC) Complex In Vivo

The SMC complex, MukBEF, is important for chromosome organization and segregation in Escherichia coli. Fluorescently tagged MukBEF forms distinct spots (or "foci") in the cell, where it is thought to carry out most of its chromosome associated activities. This chapter outlines the technique of Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching (FRAP) as a method to study the properties of YFP-tagged MukB in fluorescent foci. This method can provide important insight into the dynamics of MukB on DNA and be used to study its biochemical properties in vivo.

The Localization and Action of Topoisomerase IV in Escherichia coli Chromosome Segregation Is Coordinated by the SMC Complex, MukBEF

The type II topoisomerase TopoIV, which has an essential role in Escherichia coli chromosome decatenation, interacts with MukBEF, an SMC (structural maintenance of chromosomes) complex that acts in chromosome segregation. We have characterized the intracellular dynamics of individual TopoIV molecules and the consequences of their interaction with MukBEF clusters by using photoactivated-localization microscopy. We show that ∼15 TopoIV molecules per cell are associated with MukBEF clusters that are preferentially localized to the replication origin region (ori), close to the long axis of the cell. A replication-dependent increase in the fraction of immobile molecules, together with a proposed catalytic cycle of ∼1.8 s, is consistent with the majority of active TopoIV molecules catalyzing decatenation, with a minority maintaining steady-state DNA supercoiling. Finally, we show that the MukB-ParC interaction is crucial for timely decatenation and segregation of newly replicated ori DNA.

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Individual molecules of topoisomerase IV (TopoIV) were tracked in live E. coli cells

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TopoIV was monitored in cellular space and in time throughout the cell cycle

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The interaction of TopoIV and MukBEF directs TopoIV to its sites of action

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The TopoIV-MukBEF interaction promotes timely segregation of newly replicated DNA

The bacterial nucleoid: nature, dynamics and sister segregation

Recent studies reveal that the bacterial nucleoid has a defined, self-adherent shape and an underlying longitudinal organization and comprises a viscoelastic matrix. Within this shape, mobility is enhanced by ATP-dependent processes and individual loci can undergo ballistic off-equilibrium movements. In Escherichia coli, two global dynamic nucleoid behaviors emerge pointing to nucleoid-wide accumulation and relief of internal stress. Sister segregation begins with local splitting of individual loci, which is delayed at origin, terminus and specialized interstitial snap regions. Globally, as studied in several systems, segregation is a multi-step process in which internal nucleoid state plays critical roles that involve both compaction and expansion. The origin and terminus regions undergo specialized programs partially driven by complex ATP burning mechanisms such as a ParAB Brownian ratchet and a septum-associated FtsK motor. These recent findings reveal strong, direct parallels among events in different systems and between bacterial nucleoids and mammalian chromosomes with respect to physical properties, internal organization and dynamic behaviors.

Spatial organization of transcription machinery and its segregation from the replisome in fast-growing bacterial cells

In a fast-growing Escherichia coli cell, most RNA polymerase (RNAP) is allocated to rRNA synthesis forming transcription foci at clusters of rrn operons or bacterial nucleolus, and each of the several nascent nucleoids contains multiple pairs of replication forks. The composition of transcription foci has not been determined. In addition, how the transcription machinery is three-dimensionally organized to promote cell growth in concord with replication machinery in the nucleoid remains essentially unknown. Here, we determine the spatial and functional landscapes of transcription and replication machineries in fast-growing E. coli cells using super-resolution-structured illumination microscopy. Co-images of RNAP and DNA reveal spatial compartmentation and duplication of the transcription foci at the surface of the bacterial chromosome, encompassing multiple nascent nucleoids. Transcription foci cluster with NusA and NusB, which are the rrn anti-termination system and are associated with nascent rRNAs. However, transcription foci tend to separate from SeqA and SSB foci, which track DNA replication forks and/or the replisomes, demonstrating that transcription machinery and replisome are mostly located in different chromosomal territories to maintain harmony between the two major cellular functions in fast-growing cells. Our study suggests that bacterial chromosomes are spatially and functionally organized, analogous to eukaryotes.

MukBEF, a chromosomal organizer

Global folding of bacterial chromosome requires the activity of condensins. These highly conserved proteins are involved in various aspects of higher-order chromatin dynamics in a diverse range of organisms. Two distinct superfamilies of condensins have been identified in bacteria. The SMC-ScpAB proteins bear significant homology to eukaryotic condensins and cohesins and are found in most of the presently sequenced bacteria. This review focuses on the MukBEF/MksBEF superfamily, which is broadly distributed across diverse bacteria and is characterized by low sequence conservation. The prototypical member of this superfamily, the Escherichia coli condensin MukBEF, continues to provide critical insights into the mechanism of the proteins. MukBEF acts as a complex molecular machine that assists in chromosome segregation and global organization. The review focuses on the mechanistic analysis of DNA organization by MukBEF with emphasis on its involvement in the formation of chromatin scaffold and plausible other roles in chromosome segregation.

Escherichia coli SeqA structures relocalize abruptly upon termination of origin sequestration during multifork DNA replication

The Escherichia coli SeqA protein forms complexes with new, hemimethylated DNA behind replication forks and is important for successful replication during rapid growth. Here, E. coli cells with two simultaneously replicating chromosomes (multifork DNA replication) and YFP tagged SeqA protein was studied. Fluorescence microscopy showed that in the beginning of the cell cycle cells contained a single focus at midcell. The focus was found to remain relatively immobile at midcell for a period of time equivalent to the duration of origin sequestration. Then, two abrupt relocalization events occurred within 2-6 minutes and resulted in SeqA foci localized at each of the cell's quarter positions. Imaging of cells containing an additional fluorescent tag in the origin region showed that SeqA colocalizes with the origin region during sequestration. This indicates that the newly replicated DNA of first one chromosome, and then the other, is moved from midcell to the quarter positions. At the same time, origins are released from sequestration. Our results illustrate that newly replicated sister DNA is segregated pairwise to the new locations. This mode of segregation is in principle different from that of slowly growing bacteria where the newly replicated sister DNA is partitioned to separate cell halves and the decatenation of sisters a prerequisite for, and possibly a mechanistic part of, segregation.

Vulnerabilities on the lagging-strand template: opportunities for mobile elements

Mobile genetic elements have the ability to move between positions in a genome. Some of these elements are capable of targeting one of the template strands during DNA replication. Examples found in bacteria include (a) Red recombination mediated by bacteriophage λ, (b) integration of group II mobile introns that reverse splice and reverse transcribe into DNA, (c) HUH endonuclease elements that move as single-stranded DNA, and (d) Tn7, a DNA cut-and-paste transposon that uses a target-site-selecting protein to target transposition into certain forms of DNA replication. In all of these examples, the lagging-strand template appears to be targeted using a variety of features specific to this strand. These features appear especially available in certain situations, such as when replication forks stall or collapse. In this review, we address the idea that features specific to the lagging-strand template represent vulnerabilities that are capitalized on by mobile genetic elements.

In vivo single-molecule imaging of bacterial DNA replication, transcription, and repair

In vivo single-molecule experiments offer new perspectives on the behaviour of DNA binding proteins, from the molecular level to the length scale of whole bacterial cells. With technological advances in instrumentation and data analysis, fluorescence microscopy can detect single molecules in live cells, opening the doors to directly follow individual proteins binding to DNA in real time. In this review, we describe key technical considerations for implementing in vivo single-molecule fluorescence microscopy. We discuss how single-molecule tracking and quantitative super-resolution microscopy can be adapted to extract DNA binding kinetics, spatial distributions, and copy numbers of proteins, as well as stoichiometries of protein complexes. We highlight experiments which have exploited these techniques to answer important questions in the field of bacterial gene regulation and transcription, as well as chromosome replication, organisation and repair. Together, these studies demonstrate how single-molecule imaging is transforming our understanding of DNA-binding proteins in cells.