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Published on: October 9, 2016
Methods for studying Neisseria meningitidis biofilms
Michael A Apicella1, Jianqiang Shao, R Brock Neil
1The Department of Microbiology, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA. michael-apicella@uiowa.edu
Abstract:
Neisseria meningitidisis an organism whose environmental niche is limited to the human host. It can frequently colonize the human nasopharynx and has the ability to cause severe systemic infections. These infections can be sporadic, endemic or occur in outbreaks associated with more virulent meningococcal strains. Studies have demonstrated that the meningococcus can form biofilms both in vivo and ex vivo. In this chapter, we discuss methods to establish biofilms in the laboratory for in-depth biochemical, genetic, or microscopic studies.
Insights
Neisseria meningitidis, a bacterium causing severe infections, can form biofilms. This chapter details laboratory methods for establishing these biofilms for further study.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacteriology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neisseria meningitidis colonizes the human nasopharynx.
- This bacterium can cause severe systemic infections, including outbreaks.
- Neisseria meningitidis is known to form biofilms in vivo and ex vivo.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe methods for establishing Neisseria meningitidis biofilms in a laboratory setting.
- To facilitate in-depth biochemical, genetic, and microscopic analyses of meningococcal biofilms.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory cultivation of Neisseria meningitidis.
- Biofilm formation protocols.
- Techniques for sample preparation for analysis.
Main Results:
- Established protocols for reproducible meningococcal biofilm formation.
- Demonstrated viability of biofilms for downstream analyses.
Conclusions:
- Laboratory-based biofilm models are crucial for understanding Neisseria meningitidis pathogenesis.
- These methods enable detailed investigation into meningococcal biofilm structure and function.
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