Bacterial 3D genome architecture: organization, regulation, and synthetic biology applications
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Bacterial chromosomes are compacted into hierarchical three-dimensional (3D) architectures that underpin essential processes such as replication, transcription, and segregation. However, detailed principles governing genome architecture and its regulation remain incompletely understood. Here we review current knowledge on structural organization of bacterial 3D genomes and their regulatory factors, integrating insights from chromosome conformation capture and imaging studies. We highlight how genome architecture dynamically responds to environmental cues. We also discuss potential applications of bacterial 3D genomics, particularly in synthetic biology. These findings provide a framework for understanding bacterial genomic homeostasis and adaptation, offering opportunities for engineering microbial systems and novel therapies.
Source: Genome biology
Authors: Mao Chen, Ziyi Zhu, Yuhuan Huang, Bo Wu, Mingxiong He
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $5,490
OpenAlex ID: W7162203695