Like hibernating bears, certain bacterial cells have the ability to shift into a “low-power” metabolic state in which they can stably survive without growing. This state is often seen in the context of antibiotic-resistant infections as bacteria form a sticky mass called a biofilm; this low-power state enables bacteria in biofilm cores to resist commonly used antibiotics. Studying bacteria in this context has historically posed technical challenges for researchers. Like hibernating bears, certain bacterial cells have the ability to shift into a “low-power” metabolic state in which they can stably survive without growing. This state is often seen in the context of antibiotic-resistant infections as bacteria form a sticky mass called a biofilm; this low-power state enables bacteria in biofilm cores to resist commonly used antibiotics. Studying bacteria in this context has historically posed technical challenges for researchers. Cell & Microbiology Biotechnology Phys.org – latest science and technology news stories
New technology illustrates bacterial ‘hibernation states’
