The predatory bacterium Myxococcus xanthus kills other bacteria by contact. Here, Herrou et al. show that the predator uses an extensible appendage, or pilus, that is functionalized by four distinct minor pilin complexes which work in association with a needleless type-III secretion system to kill various prey species.
- Julien Herrou
- Laetitia My
- Tâm Mignot