Cooperative self-organization of microorganisms

Abstract

In nature, microorganisms must often cope with hostile environmental conditions. To do so they have developed sophisticated cooperative behaviour and intricate communication capabilities, such as: direct cell-cell physical interactions via extra-membrane polymers, collective production of extracellular 'wetting' fluid for movement on hard surfaces, long range chemical signalling such as quorum sensing and chemotactic (bias of movement according to gradient of chemical agent) signalling, collective activation and deactivation of genes and even exchange of genetic material. Utilizing these capabilities, the colonies develop complex spatio-temporal patterns in response to adverse growth conditions. We present a wealth of beautiful patterns formed during colony development of various microorganisms and for different environmental conditions. Invoking ideas from pattern formation in non-living systems and using 'generic' modelling we are able to reveal novel survival strategies which account for the salient features of the evolved patterns. Using the models, we demonstrate how communication leads to self-organization via cooperative behaviour of the cells. In this regard, pattern formation in microorganisms can be viewed as the result of the exchange of information between the micro-level (the individual cells) and the macro-level (the colony). As such, a full understanding of bacterial behaviour must focus simultaneously on individual cell responses and overall colony organization. © 2000 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.