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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
03:57
Microtiter Dish Biofilm Formation Assay
Published on: January 30, 2011
Biofilm Formation by Neisseria gonorrhoeae
L L Greiner1, J L Edwards, J Shao
1Department of Microbiology, University of Iowa, 51 Newton Rd., Iowa City, IA 52242, USA. michael-apicella@uiowa.edu
Infection and Immunity
|March 24, 2005
Summary
Neisseria gonorrhoeae readily forms biofilms in continuous-flow chambers and on living cells. These bacterial biofilms, characterized by embedded organisms and water channels, may be crucial for understanding asymptomatic gonorrhea infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacterial Pathogenesis
- Biofilm Formation
Background:
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a significant human pathogen.
- Understanding bacterial biofilm formation is critical for developing effective treatments.
- The ability of N. gonorrhoeae to form biofilms has been previously unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the capacity of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to form biofilms under controlled laboratory conditions.
- To characterize the structure and composition of N. gonorrhoeae biofilms.
- To assess biofilm formation on human epithelial cells.
Main Methods:
- Cultivation of N. gonorrhoeae strains (1291, MS11, FA1090) in continuous-flow chambers.
- Microscopic analysis (cryofield emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy).
- Biochemical analysis using monoclonal antibodies and lectins to identify matrix components.
Main Results:
- N. gonorrhoeae consistently formed biofilms irrespective of sodium nitrite presence.
- Biofilms exhibited a matrix with embedded organisms and water channels.
- Matrix composition varied, indicated by lactosamine and sialyllactosamine presence depending on CMP-Neu5Ac.
- Biofilm formation occurred on urethral and cervical epithelial cells without compromising cell viability.
Conclusions:
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae possesses the capability to form robust biofilms.
- These biofilms can develop on host epithelial cells, suggesting a role in infection.
- Further study of these biofilms is essential for understanding asymptomatic gonorrhea.
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