A genetic screen unveils key molecular steps in the polymerization cycle of the bacterial actin-like MreB

MreB, a bacterial actin homolog and polymerizing ATPase, is central to cell-shape maintenance and cell-wall integrity.

MreB, a bacterial actin homolog and polymerizing ATPase, is central to cell-shape maintenance and cell-wall integrity. Its functions rely on its ability to assemble into dynamic, membrane-associated polymers. However, how nucleotide binding and hydrolysis, MreB-MreB contacts,…