Stochastic Switching in E. coli Adaptation to Starvation
Author Information
Author(s): Shimizu Yoshihiro, Tsuru Saburo, Ito Yoichiro, Ying Bei-Wen, Yomo Tetsuya
Primary Institution: Osaka University
Hypothesis
Can stochastic switching contribute to the adaptation of a starved Escherichia coli population?
Conclusion
Stochastic switching allows a starved bacterial population to adapt by forming a new population with induced trpC in response to tryptophan starvation.
Supporting Evidence
- Stochastic switching allowed initially suppressed cells to form a new population with induced trpC.
- The frequency of switching decreased significantly under tryptophan starvation.
- A larger population size compensated for the reduced switching rate.
Takeaway
Bacteria can switch between two states to survive when food is scarce, but they need a lot of friends to help them find the right state.
Methodology
The study involved constructing a genetically modified E. coli strain and observing its growth and switching behavior under different nutrient conditions.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on a single genetic circuit and may not generalize to other systems or conditions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website