Magnetotaxis

Magnetotaxis is a biological phenomenon that refers to the ability of certain organisms, particularly bacteria, to align themselves along the Earth's magnetic field. This behavior is believed to aid these organisms in locating optimal environments for growth and survival.

Overview

Magnetotactic bacteria, or MTB, are a diverse group of bacteria that have developed the ability to respond to magnetic fields, a trait known as magnetotaxis. This behavior is thought to aid these bacteria in locating optimal environments for growth and survival, particularly in aquatic environments where chemical gradients can be steep and variable.

Mechanism

The mechanism of magnetotaxis is based on the presence of magnetosomes, which are intracellular structures containing magnetic mineral crystals. These magnetosomes are arranged in chains within the cell, allowing the bacteria to align themselves along magnetic field lines.

Magnetosomes

Magnetosomes are intracellular structures that contain magnetic mineral crystals. These crystals are typically composed of magnetite (Fe3O4) or greigite (Fe3S4), and are enveloped by a lipid bilayer. The size, shape, and arrangement of these crystals within the cell can vary among different species of MTB.

Applications

The unique properties of MTB and their magnetosomes have potential applications in various fields, including biotechnology, medicine, and environmental remediation. For example, magnetosomes could be used for targeted drug delivery in medical treatments, or for the removal of contaminants in water treatment processes.

See also

• Magnetoreception
• Magnetosome
• Magnetotactic bacteria

References

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