Prof. Dr. Georg Pohnert
Influence of endophytic and associate microorganisms on the morphology
and metabolome of siphonous green algae

Abstract:
Siphonous green algae are unusual macroalgae that consist of a single giant cell that can reach up to several meters in length. These marine coenocytic green algae coexist with bacteria that are found within the cells. The exact relationship between these bacteria and the algae has not been established but first observations indicate that a dramatic change in algal morphology can be observed in the absence of bacteria. We aim to investigate the role of bacteria / algal interaction using the model alga Valonia sp.. Axenic cultures of this alga will be generated by treating field isolates with antibiotics. The effect of the endophytic bacteria will then be investigated in a comparative approach. This will include the monitoring of morphology and physiology, but, above all a profound metabolic profiling approach. Using this technique, we plan to elucidate the signals and/or nutrients that affect the algal growth and the signals involved in cell cell communication.

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