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Team:Newcastle/Project/shape shifting
From 2013.igem.org
Contents |
Shape Shifting
Our Project
We aim to put L-forms into a single cell wide microfluidics channels (that are as small as 1 μm wide) with differently shaped end chambers. We will then observe whether the L-forms will grow and take up the shape of these chambers due to their lack of cell wall.
Microfluidics
Microfluidics are a manipulation of fluid in the micro domain. The microfluidics chambers were designed using autoCAD, software used for computer-aided design and drafting, to produce silicon wafer master moulds. Directed flow within the microfluidic wafer will physically manoeuvre L-form cells into the designed chambers, where they will be maintained by nutrient media. This will enable single cell level analysis for L-forms.
Visualization of Cell Membrane
We would also be able to visualise the shape of the cell membrane and confirm our hypothesis by using FM.595 membrane stain to stain the membrane red. This will show that the shape of L-forms can be easily manipulated.
News
8th August
The rough model outline is now ready. Microfluidics chamber is currently in design.
5th August
Follow-up meeting with Dr.David Swailes. During the meeting, the concepts of the first, and most primitive model were identified. Maths added.
30th July
First meeting with Dr.David Swailes, head of fluid mechanics department in the school of Mechanical Engineering at Newcastle University. During the meeting, the underlying physiology of the growth was identified and agreed upon. Based on the physiology, the approach towards the modelling was decided to have three parts: Unrestricted growth, Turning Point and Restricted growth and thus change of the shape.
Modelling
For the purposes of the study the complex model of the growing cell inside of the confined space can be broken down to simpler models of the system at three phases. The first phase would be a constantly growing cell, followed by a model of the cell when it touches the boundaries and therefore changes the trajectory of the membrane growth and finally a model of the cell gradually adopting the shape of the boundaries.
The full description of the model can be found on this page.
