The symbiotic relationship between two different organisms is indeed a fascinating event in nature. Very recently, scientists from USA published their research outcome (PNAS August 12, 2008 vol. 105 no. 32 11323-11328) on symbiotic relationship between a microbe (Vibrio fischeri) and a squid (scientific name: Euprymna scolopes). In the article, Chun et al described the effects of colonization, luminescence, and autoinducer on host transcription during squid-vibrio symbiosis, by using glass-slide microarray. The article provided significant insight in to the role of bioluminescence in preparing the host for bacteria-induced development. Based on the comparative analysis, authors in the article also revealed a set of genes possibly associated with host response towards its symbiotic partner. This article will certainly rich the understanding of the host-microbe interaction and genetic machinery involved in the development of such relationship.
Glossary
Bioluminescence
Bioluminescence refers to the ability of a living organism to emit lightis. Bioluminescence is produced by a living organism as the result of a chemical reaction during which chemical energy is converted to light energy. It should not be confused with fluorescence, phosphorescence or refraction of light, which describes other forms of light emission. Bioluminescence occurs in marine vertebrates and invertebrates, as well as microorganisms and terrestrial animals. Symbiotic organisms carried within larger organisms are also known to bioluminesce.
Squid
Squid are one kind of marine animal. Many species of squid are consumed by human as sea-food.
Symbiosis
Symbiosis is a relationship between two organisms which could be mutalistic (both organisms are benefited by the relationship), parasitic (one member of the association benefits while the other is harmed), or commensal (one organism benefits and the other is not significantly harmed or helped) in nature.
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