In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at Finland’s Aalto University, magnets have been used to control the movement of bacteria. This innovative approach not only allows for the alignment of bacteria but also opens up new possibilities in various fields of research such as complex materials, phase transitions, and condensed matter physics.
Unlike magnetotactic bacteria that are inherently magnetic, the bacteria utilized in this study, Bacillus subtilis, are not magnetic. The researchers achieved control over the bacteria by mixing them in a liquid containing millions of magnetic nanoparticles. When magnets are activated, creating a magnetic field, the bacteria are coerced to align with the field due to the lower energy requirement compared to any other arrangement. As a result, the bacteria line up in response to the torque created by the magnetic field.
The strength of the magnetic field plays a crucial role in determining the alignment of the bacteria. When the magnets are turned off, the bacteria display random movement. However, as the magnetic field strength is increased, the bacteria gradually align themselves, eventually forming nearly perfect rows. The population density of the bacteria also influences the alignment, with higher densities requiring stronger magnetic fields to overcome the turbulence-like effects caused by the swimming bacteria within the liquid.
The phenomenon of active turbulence, driven by the collective actions of moving units like bacteria, sperm, or epithelial cells, is of significant interest in the study of active matter physics. In this study, dense bacterial suspensions were used as an effective tool to investigate active turbulence. This type of turbulence is distinct from conventional turbulence and offers insights into the emergent behaviors of dynamic systems composed of individual components.
The ability to control bacterial movement and turbulent flow has far-reaching implications beyond merely organizing bacteria in a structured manner. Understanding and manipulating active matter has vast applications in self-sustaining materials, microrobotics, and targeted drug delivery on a microscopic scale. By harnessing the potential of active matter, researchers can explore new avenues in material science and biological engineering.
Looking ahead, researchers aim to expand their work by exploring the effects of dynamic magnetic fields, such as rotating magnetic fields, on bacterial alignment and movement. By delving deeper into the interaction between magnetic fields and bacteria, new insights into controlling active matter and studying phase transitions can be uncovered. The versatility of this method holds promise for application beyond bacterial systems, paving the way for advancements in the experimental study of active matter.
The use of magnets to control bacteria movement represents a significant breakthrough with extensive implications across diverse research fields. By manipulating bacterial alignment through magnetic fields, researchers have unlocked new possibilities for understanding active matter and exploring novel applications in material science and biological engineering. This study not only sheds light on the behavior of bacterial suspensions but also paves the way for future innovations in the field of active matter physics.
Leave a Reply