| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3399239 | Current Opinion in Microbiology | 2011 | 6 Pages |
Enzymes that degrade the peptidoglycan (PG) cell wall layer called PG hydrolases or autolysins are often thought of as destructive forces. Phages employ them to lyse their host for the release of virion particles and some bacteria secrete them to eliminate (lyse) their competition. However, bacteria also harness the activity of PG hydrolases for important aspects of growth, division, and development. Of course, using PG hydrolases in this capacity requires that they be tightly regulated. While this has been appreciated for some time, we are only just beginning to understand the mechanisms governing the activities of these ‘tailoring’ enzymes. This review will focus on recent advances in this area with an emphasis on the regulation of PG hydrolases involved in cell division.
► Cell wall hydrolases play important roles in bacterial growth and division. ► Mechanisms regulating hydrolase activity are beginning to be elucidated. ► Cell wall hydrolases are important for virulence and are potential antibiotic targets.
