Filament organization of the bacterial actin MreB is dependent on the nucleotide state

MreB, the bacterial ancestor of eukaryotic actin, is responsible for shape in most rod-shaped bacteria. Despite belonging to the actin family, the relevance of nucleotide-driven polymerization dynamics for MreB function is unclear. Here, we provide insights into the effect of nucleotide state on membrane binding of Spiro plasma citri MreB5 (ScMreB5). Filaments of ScMreB5(WT) and an ATPase-deficient mutant, ScMreB5(E134A), assemble independently of the nucleotide state. However, capture of the filament dynamics revealed that efficient filament formation and organization through lateral interactions are affected in ScMreB5(E134A). Hence, the catalytic glutamate functions as a switch, (a) by sensing the ATP-bound state for filament assembly and (b) by assisting hydrolysis, thereby potentially triggering disassembly, as observed in other actins. Glu134 mutation and the bound nucleotide exhibit an allosteric effect on membrane binding, as observed from the differential liposome binding. We suggest that the conserved ATP-dependent polymerization and disassembly upon ATP hydrolysis among actins has been repurposed in MreBs for modulating filament organization on the membrane.

Automated summary

This study provides insights into the effect of nucleotide state on membrane binding of Spiro plasma citri MreB5 (ScMreB5) and the allosteric effect of Glu134 mutation and the bound nucleotide on membrane binding. The study suggests that MreB protein modulates bacterial morphology by controlling polymerization and disassembly.