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Molecular evolution of FtsZ protein sequences encoded within the genomes of archaea, bacteria, and eukaryota

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Stephen Addinall

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Abstract

The FtsZ protein is a polymer-forming GTPase which drives bacterial cell division and is structurally and functionally related to eukaryotic tubulins. We have searched for FtsZ-related sequences in all freely accessible databases, then used strict criteria based on the tertiary structure of FtsZ and its well-characterized in vitro and in vivo properties to determine which sequences represent genuine homologues of FtsZ. We have identified 225 full-length FtsZ homologues, which we have used to document, phylum by phylum, the primary sequence characteristics of FtsZ homologues from the Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukaryota. We provide evidence for at least five independent ftsZ gene-duplication events in the bacterial kingdom and suggest the existence of three ancestoral euryarchaeal FtsZ paralogues. In addition, we identify "FtsZ-like" sequences from Bacteria and Archaea that, while showing significant sequence similarity to FtsZs, are unlikely to bind and hydrolyze GTP.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Vaughan S, Wickstead B, Gull K, Addinall SG

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of Molecular Evolution

Year: 2004

Volume: 58

Issue: 1

Pages: 19-29

ISSN (print): 0022-2844

ISSN (electronic): 1432-1432

Publisher: Springer New York LLC

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00239-003-2523-5

DOI: 10.1007/s00239-003-2523-5

Notes: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't United States

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