A diagram of the classical perspective of segregation of low copy vs multicopy plasmids is shown below.

The ability to visualize plasmid segregation using Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) has recently provided novel insights into this process. [For an example, see the video clip on Joe Pogliano's website.] Chromosome and plasmid partitioning in E. coli.)

Some useful recent reviews on plasmid partitioning and plasmid addiction systems are listed below.

REFERENCES:

• Engelberg-Kulka, H., G. Glaser. 1999. Addiction modules and programmed cell death and antideath in bacterial cultures. Annu Rev Microbiol. 53: 43-70.
• Gerdes, K., J. Moller-Jensen, and R. Jensen. 2000. Plasmid and chromosome partitioning: surprises from phylogeny. Mol Microbiol. 37: 455-466.
• Gordon, G., and A. Wright. 2000. DNA segregation in bacteria. Annu Rev Microbiol. 54: 681-708.
• Moller-Jensen, J., R. Jensen, and K. Gerdes. 2000. Plasmid and chromosome segregation in prokaryotes. Trends Microbiol. 8: 313-320.
• Sherratt, D. 2003. Bacterial chromosome dynamics. Science 301: 780-785.
• Thomas, C. 2000. Paradigms of plasmid organization. Mol. Microbiol. 37: 485-491.