These bacteria are like zombies. For them, death does not mean the end.

Researchers from Aarhus University discovered that DNA production can continue after bacterial cell death. They found a way to control this process, potentially aiding in the development of new biological materials. The study revealed that the molecular machinery of bacteria remains active post-cell death, with viruses playing a crucial role. By depriving bacteria of nutrients, dormant viruses were activated, leading to cell rupture while specialized enzymes continued DNA production in biofilms. The team demonstrated control over the type of DNA produced, including G-quadruplexes, which could serve as catalysts. This research may have applications in environmental biotechnology, such as wastewater treatment and bioenergy production.