Figure 7. Models of vibrioid curvature.

(A) Schematic of differential insertion rate creating centerline curvature. An initially straight cell (Generation 0 – PG labeled green) experienced growth with an asymmetry quotient of 1.1 (new PG labeled red). After a single doubling in length (Generation 1), the cell was divided and doubled again (Generation 2). As in actual cells, centerline curvature is determined by the diameter and the ratio of the outer and inner arc lengths (Figure S3D–F).

(B) In natural environments, V. cholerae must penetrate and escape from hydrogels, where curvature could be advantageous (red arrows). In the host, V. cholerae encounters host-associated mucus gels, and penetration of these gels is an important step in cholera pathogenesis (left). V. cholerae must also disperse (right) from host-associated mucus gels, as well as bacterial-associated biofilm. Either process could be facilitated by curvature.