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Slime production is essential for the adherence of Staphylococcus epidermidis in implant-related infections

N Nayak1, G Satpathy, H L Nag

  • 1Department of Ocular Microbiology, Dr Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.

The Journal of Hospital Infection
|January 11, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Staphylococcus epidermidis slime production is crucial for device-related infections. This bacterial slime facilitates adherence to artificial surfaces, forming biofilms that contribute to persistent infections.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Biomaterials Science

Background:

  • Staphylococcus epidermidis is a common cause of indwelling device-related infections.
  • Slime production and adherence are key virulence factors for this bacterium.
  • Understanding these factors is vital for preventing and treating device-associated infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of slime production in Staphylococcus epidermidis adherence to artificial surfaces.
  • To determine the prevalence of slime-positive and adherent isolates in clinical samples.
  • To assess the efficacy of anti-slime antibodies in inhibiting bacterial adherence.

Main Methods:

  • Slime production was assessed using the Congo Red agar method.
  • Bacterial adherence to artificial surfaces was quantified using a quantitative slime test.
  • Antibodies against slime were generated in rabbits and tested for inhibitory effects on adherence.

Main Results:

  • 65.6% of Staphylococcus epidermidis isolates were slime-positive.
  • 75% of isolates demonstrated adherence to artificial surfaces.
  • The majority of adherent bacteria (79.1%) were slime producers.
  • Antibody to slime significantly inhibited the adherence of all tested adherent isolates.

Conclusions:

  • Slime production is essential for Staphylococcus epidermidis attachment to indwelling devices.
  • Slime facilitates the formation of biofilms, contributing to persistent infections.
  • Targeting bacterial slime may offer a novel therapeutic strategy against device-related infections.

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