Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2026

Single-cell Analysis of Bacillus subtilis Biofilms Using Fluorescence Microscopy and Flow Cytometry
Published on: February 15, 2012
Membrane fluidity in Bacillus subtilis. Physical change and biological adaptation
1Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague.
Abstract:
The thermotropic behaviour of membrane phospholipids was estimated in intact cells of Bacillus subtilis. Membrane fluidity (microviscosity) of intact cells depended markedly on the ambient temperature - increase in cultivation temperature led to an increase in membrane fluidity. Estimated as anisotropy of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene fluorescence, a 30% difference was observed when cells cultivated at 20 and 40 degrees C were compared. This lack of rigorous homeostatic control of bulk-phase lipid fluidity prompted the reevaluation of the physiological significance of the "homeoviscous adaptation" in B. subtilis.
Related Concept Videos
Membrane Fluidity
Membrane Fluidity
Mosaic nature of the membrane
The mosaic characteristic of the membrane helps the plasma membrane remain fluid. The integral proteins and lipids exist as separate but loosely-attached molecules in the membrane. The membrane is a relatively...
Plasma Membrane in Bacteria and Archaea
Flagella and Motility in Bacteria
Biosynthesis of Lipids
Factors Influencing Microbial Growth: Temperature

