bz-rates

bz-rates calculates microbial mutation rates from fluctuation assay data using models based on the Luria-Delbrück distribution.

Key Features:

• Differential Growth Rate Modeling: Incorporates the differential growth rate parameter (b) between mutant and wild-type cells using a generating function approach to improve estimation of the number of mutations per culture (m).
• Plating Efficiency Adjustment: Integrates the parameter z to account for deviations from the classical Luria-Delbrück distribution caused by plating efficiency.
• Model Fit Evaluation: Provides graphical comparison of experimental fluctuation assay data with theoretical model predictions to assess goodness-of-fit.

Scientific Applications:

• Microbial Mutation Rate Estimation: Quantifies mutation rates in microorganisms using fluctuation assay datasets.
• Experimental Evolution Studies: Analyzes mutation dynamics relevant to genetic variability, microbial evolution, and resistance development.

Methodology:

bz-rates estimates the number of mutations per culture (m) from fluctuation assay data using a generating function formulation of the Luria-Delbrück distribution that incorporates differential growth rate (b) and plating efficiency (z) parameters.