News Microbes

This giant microbe organizes its DNA in a surprising way

The finding challenges long-held assumptions that bacteria lack complexity

Giant speckled bacteria viewed under a microscope lens.

These giant bacteria, Thiovulum imperiosus, store their DNA in membranous compartments. It’s a method of organization that’s exceedingly rare among known bacteria.

P.E. CONTARINI

By Meghan Rosen

PHILADELPHIA — Deep in the mangrove swamps of the Caribbean lives a giant bacterium with a surprise trick for organizing its DNA.

Thiovulum imperiosus wraps its genetic material in membranous fingers, squishing it against the periphery of the cell, scientists reported December 6 at the Cell Bio meeting.