Why "mazEF mediated programmed cell death in bacteria" could be a misleading hypothesis.

What is it about?

This is the first review from our team. This review​ is about the role of mazEF toxin-antitoxin system in mediating programmed cell death in bacteria. This review comprises two parts. The first part explains what is "mazEF mediated programmed cell death" and the complex pathways described by the proponents of this hypothesis. The second part is largely a critique of the PCD hypothesis. It finds the various contradictions reported, problems with strain construction as well as fundamental faults within the hypothesis itself. Through this review, ​we strongly recommend skepticism in PCD hypothesis.

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Why is it important?

mazEF mediated PCD in bacteria has been a very controversial hypothesis within the "inner circle" of the scientific community. However, the large scientific population is unaware of the intricate problems with this hypothesis. From our view, this review is to put forward the various contradictory issues with this hypothesis and to exercise caution before taking every said observation at the face value. This information provided in this review could actually save valuable time and resources before venturing into Toxin-Antitoxin mediated PCD field.