The membrane potential of living cells is a key element in the exchanges and communication between cells. It is essential in excitable cells such as neurons and contractile cells. However, its role in bacteria has only recently been investigated. It has been implicated in cell division, bacterial movement, antibiotic resistance and possibly bacterial communication. Spontaneous variations in potential have been observed in isolated bacteria, but this phenomenon is not well understood.

In the laboratory, we are trying to understand how this membrane potential and its flutuations are linked to the physiological state of the bacteria and its environment. For this, we are working on isolated cells and micro-colonies, mainly on Neisseria gonorrhooeae and Neisseria elongata.