Characterization of Adaptations to Large Cell Size in Epulopiscium sp.

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Using Epulopiscium as a model, this project will address a fundamental problem facedby all large cells; that is, how a large cell overcomes constraints imposed on it by thediffusion coefficients of bioactive molecules. With cigar-shaped cells reaching 600 microns by80 microns, Epulopiscium spp. are the largest heterotrophic bacteria described to date. Thepresence of repetitive DNA located at the periphery of the cytoplasm may be asignificant adaptation to maintain large cell size and high metabolic activity inEpulopiscium. This research project will further characterize this adaptation and itsimpact on biomolecule production and distribution. These results will provide importantinsights into the fundamental cellular issue of getting molecules (energy and nutrients) todistinct locations within a cell in a timely fashion. The project provides significanteducational and training opportunities for graduate, undergraduate and high schoolstudents interested in the sciences. Although Epulopiscium is exceptional in thebacterial world it is an exciting model for conveying basic concepts of the bacterial cell.The fact that Epulopiscium spp. are so large, but not pathogenic, makes them goodrepresentatives of the microbial world, not only for biology students but for the generalpublic as well. To facilitate information flow, a website featuring Epulopiscium biologywill be developed. It will use Epulopiscium as a central model to introduce topicsranging from nanobiotechnology to the diversity of low G+C Gram positive bacteria(including information about pathogens like Bacillus anthracis).