2013 Participants
Christopher Cole
This research aimed to better understanding of the molecular structure of the bacterial cell wall in Bacillus subtilis (Gram +) compared to that of E. coli (Gram -). The project will involve isolating intact cell walls (sacculi), then monitoring the diffusion of fluorescent dextran molecules of different molecular sizes through the sacculi. The rate of dextran diffusion was assessed by measuring the fluorescent signal within the sacculi. This rate and the molecular size of the dextran provided an indication of the permeability of the wall structure which, in turn provides an indication of the structure of the cell wall matrix.
Funding Source: Newcastle University