| Abstract | We present a theoretical lattice model for FtsZ that incorporates the information gained from the high resolution AFM images, taken under dynamic polymerization of the protein filaments. The model includes the longitudinal bond energy, the flexibility and spontaneous curvature of the filaments, and their lateral attractions as the essential interactions underlying the polymorphic filamentary shapes observed experimentally. Monte Carlo computer simulations of the model are used to identify the relevant interaction parameters for wild type and mutant FtsZ. The extrapolation of the model to cylindrical geometry shows that the lateral attractions between the filaments allow the condensation of the filaments in contractile ring structures. |
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