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Updated: Aug 19, 2026
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Published on: October 24, 2010
Demonstration by confocal laserscanning microscopy of invasive potential with Bacteroides fragilis
M Goldner1, M Coquis-Rondon, J P Carlier
1Unité des Anaérobies et Station Centrale de Microscopie Electronique, Institut Pasteur, Paris.
Abstract:
The confocal laserscanning microscopy (CLSM) system provides a stereoscopic view of an object. By this system the penetration of B. fragilis into HeLa cells was observed. The intensity of contact is highlighted with time. The CLSM system consolidates the recently described fluorescence technique to test invasive potential. This work purports that certain gram-negative anaerobes should be considered for invasiveness.
Insights
Confocal laser-scanning microscopy visualized Bacteroides fragilis invasion into HeLa cells, highlighting contact intensity over time. This study suggests gram-negative anaerobes possess invasive potential, requiring further consideration.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Bacteroides fragilis is a gram-negative anaerobe.
- The invasive potential of certain bacteria is a significant factor in pathogenesis.
- Understanding bacterial invasion mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To observe the penetration of B. fragilis into HeLa cells using confocal laser-scanning microscopy (CLSM).
- To evaluate the invasive potential of B. fragilis.
- To determine if gram-negative anaerobes should be considered for invasiveness.
Main Methods:
- Confocal laser-scanning microscopy (CLSM) was employed to obtain a stereoscopic view.
- A fluorescence technique was utilized in conjunction with CLSM.
- The interaction between B. fragilis and HeLa cells was monitored over time.
Main Results:
- CLSM successfully visualized the penetration of B. fragilis into HeLa cells.
- The intensity of bacterial contact with host cells was observed to increase over time.
- The study demonstrated the utility of CLSM and fluorescence techniques for assessing bacterial invasiveness.
Conclusions:
- B. fragilis exhibits invasive behavior into HeLa cells.
- The CLSM system is effective for studying bacterial invasion dynamics.
- Certain gram-negative anaerobes warrant consideration for their invasive capabilities.
