Swiss researchers discover ‘sense of touch’ in bacteria

University of Basel researchers have identified how tiny bacteria recognise and react to surfaces with which they come into contact – a surprising discovery that could help scientists better understand infections in humans. By studying a bacterium called Caulobacter, the team discovered that the tiny microorganisms not only respond to chemical signals, but also possess a sense of touch, a university statement said. The bacteria can recognise surfaces and respond within seconds – a mechanism that is also used by pathogens to colonise and attack their host cells. “This is an impressive example of how rapidly and specifically bacteria can change their behaviour when they encounter surfaces,” said Urs Jenal, a professor at the university’s Biozentrum, in the statement. Motor mechanism Swimming Caulobacter have a whip-like rotating motor in their cell envelope called the flagellum. The rotation of the flagellum enables the bacteria to move in liquids. This mechanism also allows the bacteria to...