Subcellular Organization: A Critical Feature of Bacterial Cell Replication

Spatial organization is a hallmark of all living systems. Even bacteria, the smallest forms of cellular life, display defined shapes and complex internal organization, showcasing a highly structured genome, cytoskeletal filaments, localized scaffolding structures, dynamic spatial patterns, active transport, and occasionally, intracellular organelles. Spatial order is required for faithful and efficient cellular replication and offers a powerful means for the development of unique biological properties. Here, we discuss organizational features of bacterial cells and highlight how bacteria have evolved diverse spatial mechanisms to overcome challenges cells face as self-replicating entities. In contrast to the historical view that bacteria are “simple” life forms, many studies have begun to uncover the exquisite subcellular organization that underlies many critical processes for bacterial life. This Review explores the principles of spatial organization that contribute to bacterial cell growth, division, gene expression, inheritance, motility, metabolism, and beyond.