Centre-finding in E. coli and the role of mathematical modelling: past, present and future

TL;DR

This paper reviews how mathematical modelling has been crucial in understanding complex patterning systems in E. coli, highlighting past successes, current trends, and future potential for quantitative approaches in microbiology.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the role of mathematical modelling in elucidating E. coli's patterning systems and discusses the under-utilization of such methods in microbiology.

Findings

Mathematical modelling was essential for understanding MinCDE and ParABS systems.

Modelling approaches are increasing but still underused in microbiology.

Quantitative methods are vital for unraveling complex biological systems.

Abstract

We review the key role played by mathematical modelling in elucidating two centre-finding patterning systems in E. coli: midcell division positioning by the MinCDE system and DNA partitioning by the ParABS system. We focus particularly on how, despite much experimental effort, these systems were simply too complex to unravel by experiments alone, and instead required key injections of quantitative, mathematical thinking. We conclude the review by analysing the frequency of modelling approaches in microbiology over time. We find that while such methods are increasing in popularity, they are still probably heavily under-utilised for optimal progress on complex biological questions.