Mechanisms of photo- and scotophobic reversals in filamentous cyanobacteria

Characterize the molecular and biophysical mechanisms by which filamentous cyanobacteria execute photo- and scotophobic responses—reversals of their gliding direction upon experiencing increases or decreases in illuminance—so as to establish how these sensory-motor processes operate and regulate collective behaviors such as aggregation.

Background

Many filamentous cyanobacteria glide along surfaces and exhibit directional reversals in response to light gradients (photo- and scotophobic responses). The paper notes these responses are crucial for aggregation but reports that their underlying mechanisms are not yet understood in detail.

Understanding these mechanisms would bridge sensory perception and motility control in filamentous cyanobacteria and clarify how light-driven behaviors contribute to higher-level colony organization.