BIO 17N: How Bacteria Hunt for Food

Course Description

Bacteria are tiny organisms that face a big challenge. Despite their size, they must find and consume various nutrients from their environment. However, unlike humans, they lack arms, eyes, or mouths- so how do they accomplish these processes? And how do scientists use bioinformatic and biophysical tools to help answer these questions? This class will explore these questions by comparing the nutritional requirements of two bacteria, Escherichia coli (a model organism) and Borrelia burgdorferi (the causative agent of Lyme disease).