mGem: Subcellular compartments in bacterial pathogens and their role during infection

Bacterial subcellular compartments and organelles allow for the spatial organization and sequestration of metabolic pathways, toxic intermediates, and key nutrients. The prevalence of these compartments across bacterial phyla, including in prominent human pathogens, has become increasingly defined in the literature. However, the functions of subcellular compartments in bacterial pathogens and their contributions to virulence remain understudied, leaving many questions unanswered. In this review, we summarize current findings regarding the prevalence of proteinaceous and membrane-bound compartments in pathogenic bacterial species and their role during infection, and we highlight important aspects where new discoveries could have the greatest impact. Further insight into the function of these subcellular structures may reveal novel targets for antimicrobial development against the increasing threat of multi-drug-resistant pathogens.