Spatial-Temporal Modelling and Analysis of Bacterial Colonies with Phase Variable Genes

What is it about?

We have created a way to model in the computer the growth of a specific type of bacterial colony. The method describes how the colony grows spatially, and also how its characteristic patterning develops, over time. The computer model can be simulated much faster than a real colony can grow over time.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

This is the first time that the ways in which these bacterial colonies growth spatial patterns over time has been modelled and simulated in the computer. Different bacterial strains generate specific patterns, and this method can potentially be used to identify pathogenic strains of bacteria very fast and with little cost without time-consuming DNA analysis. This will ultimately benefit patients because doctors will be able to select the correct kind of antibiotics to treat an infection before it gets out of control.

Perspectives