lenka.smerdova@ceitec.muni.cz
Staphylococcus aureus is a major human pathogen causing wide-range of diseases including infections acquired in hospitals. The persistence of S. aureus infections is related to its ability to form biofilms. Bacteria in biofilm are more resistant to antibiotics and to the host immune system [1]. Extracellular matrix components play an important role in unique lifestyle and virulence of biofilms [2]. Phage therapy is alternative approach to treat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
We used light-sheet fluorescent microscope with an integrated microfluidic system to study the formation of S. aureus biofilm and its infection by phages. To visualize the biofilm-forming cells, we modified S. aureus to stably express red fluorescent protein mCherry. The main components of biofilm matrix, such as extracellular DNA and polysaccharide intercellular adhesins, were labelled by specific fluorescent dyes. We introduced different phages into the mature biofilm and used time-lapse monitoring to detect their effect on biofilm disintegration.
Light-sheet fluorescent microscope with microfluidic system and time-lapse monitoring enabled us to detect the distinct stages of biofilm formation and the impact of phage infection on the biofilm development.
1. K. Schilcher, A.R. Horswill, Microbiol Mol Biol Rev., 84 (3), 00026-19, (2020)
2. H.C. Flemming, J. Wingender, Nat Rev Microbiol, 8 (9), 623-33, (2010)