Architecture and characteristics of bacterial nanotubes

Dubey, Gyanendra P, Malli Mohan, Ganesh Babu, Dubrovsky, Anna, Amen, Triana, Tsipshtein, Shai, Rouvinski, Alex, Rosenberg, Alex, Kaganovich, Daniel, Sherman, Eilon, Medalia, Ohad and Ben-Yehuda, Sigal (2016) Architecture and characteristics of bacterial nanotubes. Developmental Cell, 36 (4), 453-61. (doi:10.1016/j.devcel.2016.01.013).

Abstract

Bacteria display an array of contact-dependent interaction systems that have evolved to facilitate direct cell-to-cell communication. We have previously identified a mode of bacterial communication mediated by nanotubes bridging neighboring cells. Here, we elucidate nanotube architecture, dynamics, and molecular components. Utilizing Bacillus subtilis as a model organism, we found that at low cell density, nanotubes exhibit remarkable complexity, existing as both intercellular tubes and extending tubes, with the latter frequently surrounding the cells in a "root-like" fashion. Observing nanotube formation in real time showed that these structures are formed in the course of minutes, displaying rapid movements. Utilizing a combination of super-resolution, light, and electron microscopy, we revealed that nanotubes are composed of chains of membranous segments harboring a continuous lumen. Furthermore, we discovered that a conserved calcineurin-like protein, YmdB, presents in nanotubes and is required for both nanotube production and intercellular molecular trade.

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Contributors

Author: Triana Amen

Author: Daniel Kaganovich

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