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Enteric Bacterial Invasion Of Intestinal Epithelial Cells In Vitro Is Dramatically Enhanced Using a Vertical Diffusion Chamber Model
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Campylobacter jejuni 81-176 forms distinct microcolonies on in vitro-infected human small intestinal tissue prior to

Graham Haddock1, Margaret Mullin2, Amanda MacCallum3

  • 1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Glasgow, UK.

Microbiology (Reading, England)
|July 10, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Campylobacter jejuni forms microcolonies and biofilms on human intestinal tissue, particularly the ileum. This bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation is crucial for causing diarrhea in humans.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pathogenesis

Background:

  • Campylobacter jejuni is a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide.
  • Understanding the initial interactions of C. jejuni with the human intestinal epithelium is key to elucidating its pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the adherence and colonization mechanisms of Campylobacter jejuni (strain 81-176) on human small and large intestinal tissues.
  • To determine the role of flagella in the formation of microcolonies and biofilms by C. jejuni on intestinal surfaces.

Main Methods:

  • Human small (ileal) and large (colonic) intestinal tissues were utilized.
  • Scanning and transmission electron microscopy were employed to visualize bacterial interactions.
  • Immunohistochemistry was used for light microscopy analysis.
  • Flagellar mutants of C. jejuni were tested for adherence and biofilm formation.

Main Results:

  • C. jejuni 81-176 adhered in large numbers to the apical surface of ileal tissue, especially in mucus-rich areas.
  • Microcolony formation was observed within 1-2 hours, facilitated by flagellar interactions.
  • Biofilm formation on ileal tissue was evident by 3-4 hours.
  • Flagellar mutants failed to form microcolonies or biofilms.
  • Lower abundance of C. jejuni was found in colonic tissue compared to ileal tissue.

Conclusions:

  • C. jejuni 81-176 demonstrates the ability to form microcolonies and biofilms on human intestinal tissue.
  • Flagellar function is essential for these colonization processes.
  • The formation of microcolonies and biofilms by C. jejuni on ileal tissue is likely a critical step in the development of human diarrhea.

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