A microscopical examination of curdlan production by an Agrobacterium sp. [ 2002-01-01 - 2002-12-31 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Dr Vilma Stanisich (Chief Investigator) ,  Prof Bruce Stone (Chief Investigator) ,  Prof R Brown,Jr (Partner Investigator)

Brief description A microscopical examination of curdlan production by an Agrobacterium sp. We will investigate the secretion of the insoluble polysaccharide curdlan, a (1,3)-beta-glucan, from the surfaces of Agrobacterium cells and the assembly of the individual polysaccharide chains into microfibrils. Using state-of-the-art techniques in time lapse and electron microscopy we will compare the images of wild type curdlan-producing cells with those of mutants impaired in the production of curdlan. The outputs will be information on the mechanics of curdlan production that will complement that emerging from our molecular biological and biochemical studies. These will have implications for understanding bacterial polysaccharide production in general and may have a commercial outcome in enhanced curdlan production.

Funding Amount $15,520

Funding Scheme Linkage - International

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