FIG 1.

Replication pathway for linear replicons in Borrelia species. Arrows indicate hairpin telomeres at the left (L) and right (R) ends. Initiation occurs at the central origin (13), and complete replication results in the formation of a head-to-head (L′L)–tail-to-tail (R-R′) dimer. The lines bisecting the junctions denote axes of 180° rotational symmetry. Where in the cell telomere resolution occurs is unknown, as is whether telomere resolution is concerted at both ends or whether it occurs independently at each end. This figure is adapted from reference 20 with permission.