A Tiny Pinch from a 'Z-Ring' Helps Bacteria Cells Divide

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This computer-generated image depicts a rod-shaped microbe in the midst of dividing. A little-understood structure called a Z-ring pinches the midsection during the division process. Image by Ganhui Lan
This computer-generated image depicts a rod-shaped microbe in the midst of dividing. A little-understood structure called a Z-ring pinches the midsection during the division process. Image by Ganhui Lan

In process that is shrouded in mystery, rod-shaped bacteria reproduce by splitting themselves in two. By applying advanced mathematics to laboratory data, a team led by Johns Hopkins researchers has solved a small but important part of this reproductive puzzle.


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