10. Dynamics of Microbial Growth

Biofilms:

What intercellular signaling method do bacterial cells within a biofilm use to understand their own population density?

When will the quorum sensing signaling molecule be in high concentration during biofilm development?

Quorum sensing helps cells _______.

a. mutate

b. form biofilms

c. carry out transduction

d. copy their DNA

e. perform conjugation

What is the function of glycocalyces and fimbriae in forming a biofilm?

Quorum sensing is _______.

a. The ability to respond to changes in population density

b. A characteristic allowing secretion of a matrix

c. Dependent on direct contact among cells

d. Associated with colonies in broth culture

Explain quorum sensing, and describe how it is related to biofilm formation.