Meghan writes:
Hello!
I work in a private diagnostic lab that focuses on food production animals. I was really excited to hear you discuss Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, it is an interesting little microbe. It tends to be really easy to diagnose as it makes characteristic diamond shaped lesions on the surface of porcine skin. It is a tough pathogen to isolate though, as it takes two days to grow on BAP or PEA agar in a candle jar, even then the colonies are pinpoint.
It is odd to hear you discuss this as a zebra, or unknown microbe as it is something I am always on the lookout for!
Thanks,
Meghan
Jabber writes:
Hello again,
Thank you very much for discussing the Deinococcus paper.
Just a short comment on the enigmatic evolution of the Deinococcaceae family.
As you mentioned, They are highly resistant to Gamma rays (up to 15000 Grays, which is 3000 times more resistant than human) and other oxidative stressors like desiccation, and chemicals. Even though the radiation resistance in Deinococcus has attracted tremendous attention, it seems that they have adapted to stressors other than ionizing radiation. The reason is that the earth has never experienced such a high flux of ionising radiation. What we know is that apart from radioactive environments, Deinococcus cells are merely found in dry environments like deserts. It has been hypothesized that radioresistance trait is a byproduct of adaptation to desiccation which introduces the same damages to the DNA (Double-strand break).
About my University though, I am from the University of Waikato but you pronounced it “Wikato” and in the end my name is pronounced “Jober”.
Kind regards.
Jabber
Chau writes:
Hi,
My name is Chau Pham. I am a student at a community college in California. This is my first semester taking microbiology. I just listened to your podcast titled, “Dirt is not Simple”. I am still learning and understanding the fascinating world of microbes, and this particular talk caught my attention.
In the talk, you spoke about and explained the difference between primary metabolism and secondary metabolism. Is it more beneficial to do research on creating antibiotics that targets the primary metabolism or the secondary metabolism?
I’ve really enjoy learning more about microbiology from your podcast channel!
Thank you so much for your time!
Best,
Chau