Bacteria can anticipate and prepare for future events, according to new research from the Weizmann Institute of Science that appeared today in Nature. Researchers from the Institute's Molecular Genetics Department discovered that the genetic networks of microorganisms could predict what comes next in a sequence of events and begin responding before its onset.

The paper said that the findings could have significant practical implications. Genetically engineered microorganisms that ferment plant materials and produce biofuels might work more efficiently if they gained the genetic ability to prepare themselves for the next step in the process.