Colorado Public Radio features Joel Kralj

Here's A 'Touching' Discovery About Bacteria

If University of Colorado scientists are right, bacteria have a sense of touch. Meaning, the little critters can detect the cells they need to glom onto to cause an infection.

University biologist Joel Kralj says his lab showed bacteria have electrical activity going on inside them. If scientists can find a way to block that activity, they may be able to develop drugs for infectious diseases. The study, recently published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, is the latest focus of our series, Beta Test, exploring scientific and technological breakthroughs in the state. 

Visit CPR to hear Joel's interview.