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Most viral genomes and replicases are encased in a proteinaceous coat known as a capsid. Here, the authors identify a curious case of an obligate association between two RNA viruses in which one of the viruses misappropriates the capsid coat from the other, a process known as trans-encapsidation.
Quorum sensing (QS) systems in bacteria coordinate collective behaviour through the use of secreted signal molecules called autoinducers. Here, the authors identify conditions under which flow can activate or repress QS in S. aureus and V. cholera.
A crystal structure of the C. difficile toxin TcdA reveals a requirement for zinc during autoprocessing and a delivery domain involved in the pH-dependent pore formation that allows the toxin to exit the endosome.