Reversal of Bacteria Processes

[madiiz]

Hi,

It is well-known that there are tons of different types of bacteria and each have unique qualities to perform certain functions. Let's say Bacteria 1 can intake chemical A and produce chemical B, is it possible that Bacteria 1 can undergo reversal and begin producing chemical A through the intake of chemical B? Would this be through genetic reconfiguration? Would the "hardware" to perform this task already be present in the bacteria cells? How hard is this process? Please send me a direct private message if you would like to discuss further. All replies are helpful so please help!

Thanks.

[deleted-71447]

Hi madiiz,
Can you tell us a little bit about where you are in the process of planning a science fair project, and how this might relate to your project? Once I know a little more, I'll be glad to help.
Thanks,
Chris

[madiiz]

I am starting my project now and planning what I may do. I am interested in finding out about if bacteria can reverse processes for the purpose of planning a project of which I have not yet begun.

[deleted-71710]

Hi madiiz, based on your reply to ChrisG's post it appears you're in the early stages selecting a project. In order to make some progress you'll need to do some background research to identify a specific process you're interested in, and then propose a specific experimental hypothesis to test.

This a fairly broad area of study so I'll give you some general information to help get you started.

Let's say Bacteria 1 can intake chemical A and produce chemical B, is it possible that Bacteria 1 can undergo reversal and begin producing chemical A through the intake of chemical B?

It's possible provided that the chemicals are available internally and externally, they can be transported in and out of the cell, the cell has the molecular machinery needed to carry out the process, and there is a biological purpose for doing so (life is a highly efficient process). More commonly this situation occurs within a cell or organism. Chemical reactions are used to convert compounds from the environment into energy and to make other compounds the cell needs to function. This collection of reactions is called metabolism. Metabolic pathways can be used to break down large molecules (catabolism, for example cellular respiration) or create molecules from smaller building blocks (anabolism, for example protein synthesis). There are pathways that can break down or create the same molecules (a "reversal") depending on what the cell/organism needs at any given time or what external conditions they are exposed to. Two pathways that demonstrate this principle are glycolysis and gluconeogenesis.

Would this be through genetic reconfiguration? Would the "hardware" to perform this task already be present in the bacteria cells?

For most chemical reactions no "genetic reconfiguration" is needed because the instructions (genes) to make the "hardware" (enzymes) are already there. Metabolic enzymes are made from their corresponding genes, and the genes are switched on or off as needed (regulation of gene expression). Other molecules (minerals, cofactors, etc.) and specific chemical conditions (temperature, pH etc.) may also be required for the reaction to occur.

How hard is this process?

It would depend on the process and it's tough to say without knowing the specific pathway. Many bacteria (such as Escherichia coli) have been studied extensively so there would be a lot of information available to help with your project. As you stated below, bacteria are a diverse group of organisms that vary in their morphology, physiology, metabolism, environment, and numerous other ways. To start I would recommend learning more about bacteria biology and metabolism in general, then select a specific pathway you are interested in. A basic microbiology textbook will provide most of the background information you need.

There are many interesting projects that can be done in this area, but again, you will need to choose a specific process/reaction to study and develop a hypothesis to be tested. Please keep us posted on your progress and let us know if you have any questions. Good luck!

- Ryan