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.