Review Articles in 2014

In this Review, van Wezel and colleagues discuss recent studies that have improved our understanding of the processes that lead to bacterial multicellularity. By considering phylogenetically diverse bacteria, the authors explore the evolutionary and ecological consequences of multicellular behaviour.

Apicomplexan parasites have a complex life cycle that relies on highly regulated development inside host cells. Here, Francia and Striepen give an overview of apicomplexan cell cycle progression and cell division and the ways in which these processes are spatially and temporally guided by the centrosome in these pathogenic parasites.

As more type VI secretion systems are identified and the secreted effectors are studied, it is becoming clear that they have an important role in mediating interbacterial interactions. Although the focus has mainly been on antagonistic interactions, type VI secretion systems may have physiological roles that extend beyond antagonism. Mougous and colleagues review the microbial ecology of type VI secretion, including a potential role in modulating microbial community dynamics.

Autophagy not only degrades components of host cells but can also target intracellular bacteria and thus contribute to host defences. Here, Huang and Brumell discuss the canonical and selective pathways of antibacterial autophagy, as well as the ways in which bacteria can escape from them and sometimes even use them to promote infection.