Abstract
This project strives to explore and identify methods for genetically modifying the marine Bacteroidetes, Cellulophaga lytica (C. lytica). This gram-negative, rod-shaped, marine bacterium s native to the rocky shores of Costa Rica, where its habitat includes coastal and oceanic regions. In these regions, the bacterium is exposed to numerous conditions, such as extreme variations in temperature, salinity, and light exposure. One distinct feature of C. lytica is its unique glitter-like iridescence, believed to be due to the bacterium’s ability to self-assemble into structures that reflect light at different wavelengths. It is hypothesized that this iridescence is the result of gliding motility, facilitated by specific genes. These genes encode for the bacterium’s translocation on surfaces without the use of any external appendages. Despite its intriguing characteristics, C. lytica remains relatively understudied, with limited knowledge about the genetic mechanisms governing its gliding motility and iridescence production. The primary aim of this study is to establish a tool for investigating and controlling the genetic mechanisms governing iridescence and gliding motility in C. lytica. The technique of electroporation will be tested at various conditions to determine transformation efficiency. Once a transformation method proves successful, then its procedures and conditions will be outlined for future work in genetically manipulating this bacterium. Additionally, this inquiry is pivotal in advancing the development of biomaterials or biosensors incorporating C. lytica for the field of biophotonics.