Metabolic Adaptations of Mycobacteria to Stress Conditions

Mycobacteria require organic carbon and oxygen for growth and energy. However, they can use a variety of energy sources and maintain cellular functions without growth. Their unique metabolic flexibility has contributed to their prevalence and success. This thesis investigated how the saprophytic soil bacterium Mycobacterium smegmatis and the pathogenic Mycobacterium tuberculosis, utilise different metabolic strategies to adapt to and survive different stress conditions. Both species endure oxygen limitation, carbon starvation, and poison exposure in their respective surroundings. This thesis explores the physiological responses of these bacteria under these external stressors in vitro and delineates their metabolic adaptations for survival.