Electromagnetic Field as a Wake-up Call for Sleeping Bacteria
Abstract
A key challenge for advanced multifunctional living materials is to re-activate the cellular function of viable organisms upon a trigger after a long time storage outside of the laboratory under unpredictable, harsh conditions. In nature, certain bacteria have developed strategies to remain in a dormant stage for years against environmental challenges, and yet return to active growth (called germination) in minutes upon specific triggers, including electromagnetic field (EMF)2-7. However, the molecular mechanisms of how EMF triggers germination is not understood. Here, we aim to identify the molecular mechanism of EMF-mediated germination for potential development of resilient living materials with remote controllability (Fig.1). Currently, there are two germination pathways identified for known germinating triggers: nutrient-dependent and nutrient-independent. We hypothesize that if a specific wavelength of EMF activates dormant bacteria in nutrient-poor conditions, then EMF-mediated germination occurs by a nutrient-independent germination pathway. In order to create particular nutrient conditions for our EMF-mediated germination, we will combine dormant bacteria with a remote controllable nutrient-release system that relies on UV-sensitive lipid vesicles. Upon successful testing of this hypothesis, we will have a conceptual design of spore-laden materials endowed with the power of genetically modified biofunctionality.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 28, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1186963
Entities
People
- Seung J. Oh
Organizations
- United States Army Corps of Engineers