Yes, flagella can rotate. Specifically, bacterial flagella are remarkable nanomachines that can rotate in both the counter-clockwise (CCW) and clockwise (CW) directions, and they can rapidly switch between these two rotational states1–4.
Bacterial Flagellar Rotation Explained
The rotation of bacterial flagella is essential for bacterial motility, enabling them to move towards nutrients or away from harmful substances.
How Bacterial Flagella Rotate:
- Direction of Rotation: Bacterial flagella can rotate both clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW).
- Switching Rotational States: Bacteria can rapidly switch between CW and CCW rotation to change direction.
- Motor Mechanism: The rotation is powered by a complex molecular motor located at the base of the flagellum.
Implications of Rotation:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| CW Rotation | Often leads to tumbling, causing the bacterium to change direction randomly. |
| CCW Rotation | Typically results in smooth swimming in a specific direction. |
Understanding the rotational capabilities of flagella helps in comprehending bacterial behavior and responses to environmental stimuli.
