Effect of receptor clustering on chemotactic performance of E. coli: Sensing versus adaptation

We show how the competition between sensing and adaptation can result in a performance peak in Escherichia coli chemotaxis using extensive numerical simulations in a detailed theoretical model. Receptor clustering amplifies the input signal coming from ligand binding which enhances chemotactic efficiency. But large clusters also induce large fluctuations in total activity since the number of clusters goes down. The activity and hence the run-tumble motility now gets controlled by methylation levels which are part of adaptation module rather than ligand binding. This reduces chemotactic efficiency.

Automated summary

The competition between sensing and adaptation in Escherichia coli chemotaxis can lead to a performance peak, as shown in extensive numerical simulations using a detailed theoretical model. Receptor clustering amplifies the input signal from ligand binding to enhance chemotactic efficiency, but large clusters also introduce fluctuations in total activity. Additionally, the activity and run-tumble motility are controlled by methylation levels in the adaptation module rather than by ligand binding, resulting in reduced chemotactic efficiency.