The Biophysics of Myxococcus xanthus Motility
Fabian Czerwinski and Joshua Shaevitz
from: Myxobacteria: Genomics, Cellular and Molecular Biology (Edited by: Zhaomin Yang and Penelope I. Higgs). Caister Academic Press, U.K. (2014)
Abstract
Biophysical approaches have become increasingly important to the study of Myxococcus xanthus from the generation of force during motility to the statistical mechanics of multi-cell pattern formation. In this chapter, we introduce a number of relevant biophysical concepts and techniques, focusing on their relevance for bacterial cells. Biophysical measurements have played a major role in the study of the Escherichia coli flagellar motor. Through analogy with this well-studied system, we hope to highlight current work in the field of M. xanthus biophysics and inspire the next generation of scientists interested in understanding the amazing behaviors of this fascinating organism read more ...
