Using Periodic Spatial Disturbance to Manipulate Cooperation in Bacteria
Abstract
This proposal is focused on an understanding of how spatial disturbance caused by physical force affects cooperative interactions between microbes within a biofilm. Biofilms of two opportunistic pathogens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus) both individually and as a mixed species will be constructed and tested for how periodic spatial disturbances of different frequencies changes the expression of virulence factors driven by small diffusible molecules; for the mixed species biofilms, cooperative and competitive interactions will be monitored. Microplate reader assays, qPCR and flow cytometry will be used to measure expression of select virulence factors. Agent-based models and ODEs will be used to understand the mechanisms that drive changes in gene expression. These modeling efforts will then be used to develop and test rationally-developed conditions that will enhance or reduce cooperation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 20, 2018
- Source ID
- W911NF1810443
Entities
People
- Robert W. Smith
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Nova Southeastern University
- Office of the Secretary of Defense