Interaction and communication of bacteria in biofilms. Do surface associated bacteria divide tasks among themselves?

• Applicant: Dr. Heike Laue
• Subject Area: Metabolism, Biochemistry and Genetics of Microorganisms
• Term: from 2001 to 2004
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5320200

In their natural environment bacteria very often live in multispecies, surface-bound communities that can be compared to multicellular organisms. The bacteria are embedded in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) containing in most cases polysaccharides and proteins, but also nucleic acids and lipids. The characteristics of a biofilm are the heterogeneous distribution of nutrients, oxygen and biomass, and in most locations of the biofilm, food is limited. Thus, the distribution of different functions between the members of a sessile community would be advantageous. The aim of this research project is to get a fundamental understanding of the interaction and commensal relationship of simple and complex microbial communities. The spatial distribution of metabolic activities of bacteria in biofilms will be investigated and the role of the EPS for the total community evaluated.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: Denmark, Switzerland
• Cooperation Partner: Professor Dr. Soeren Molin