NICOP: Gene expression in multispecies biofilms linking structure and function
Abstract
Title: Gene expression in multispecies biofilms ??? linking structure and function.Author: Associate professor Mette Burm??lleAbstract:Any available surface exposed to bacteria may eventually become colonized by often highly persistent microbial communities, also known as biofilms. One such surface is that of vessel hulls, where the presence of biofilms markedly enhances drag, thereby increasing fuel consumption and running costs. This project aims to identify the components of complex bacterial biofilms in orderto identify potential targets for anti-fouling strategies.Because of their ubiquity and high persistence, biofilms challenge various human activities.Consequently, intensive research efforts have been directed towards the biofilm area, but efficient anti-biofilm strategies are still missing. This is likely caused by a biased focus in biofilm research towards simple biofilms, composed of only one species, that neglect important interactions and synergies occurring between bacteria of different species: Only by studying the bacteria when livingwith other species in close proximity, will we be able to understand these communities and their underlying interactions.In this project, I propose the study of biofilms composed of multiple species; specifically aiming at identifying the matrix components that are differently expressed in mono vs. multispecies biofilms. This will be conducted by genetically manipulating strains in a model, four-species biofilm to; i)report expression of specific genes in response to the presence of other species in the biofilm and ii) by constructing knock-out mutants lacking the function of interest and characterization of their biofilms. Gene expression, species organization and matrix composition will be studied by use of specialized biofilm model systems in combination with advanced microscopy. This will allow analysis of; who is where, what they are doing and the consequences of deleting specific functions are.By use of this novel approach, I expect to identify key matrix components, of multispecies biofilms, that have potential as targets in the development of more efficient anti-biofilm strategies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 19, 2018
- Source ID
- N629091812179
Entities
People
- Mette Burmlle
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Copenhagen