Independence between GTPase active sites in the Escherichia coli cell division protein FtsZ

► We have analyzed the substrate kinetics of the GTPase activity of FtsZ. ► We have studied the effect of GDP and the GTP analogue GMPCPP on the GTPase activity. ► The GTPase activity follows Michaelis-Menten kinetics. ► GDP and GMPCPP inhibited the activity in a competitive manner. ► We conclude that the GTPase active sites in FtsZ filaments are independent.