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Updated: May 6, 2026
05:57
In Vitro Assay of Bacterial Adhesion onto Mammalian Epithelial Cells
Published on: May 16, 2011
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Surface attachment of a sediment isolate ofEnterobacter cloacae.
1Department of Microbiology, California State University, 90840, Long Beach, California, USA.
Microbial Ecology
|November 14, 2013
Summary
Enterobacter cloacae forms extensive capsules and adheres well to surfaces. This bacterium is well-adapted to sessile life in brackish coastal sediments, with salinity being a key limiting factor.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Enterobacter cloacae is found in diverse environments, including areas with mixed freshwater and seawater.
- Bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation are critical for survival in aquatic ecosystems.
- Understanding microbial adaptation to varying environmental conditions is crucial for ecological studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the surface colonization and adhesion properties of Enterobacter cloacae.
- To determine the influence of environmental factors like oxygen, temperature, nutrients, and salinity on Enterobacter cloacae adhesion.
- To assess the adaptability of Enterobacter cloacae to brackish water sediments.
Main Methods:
- Culturing Enterobacter cloacae under conditions promoting extracellular polysaccharide production.
- Assessing bacterial colonization on glass surfaces under aerobic and anaerobic conditions.
- Evaluating the effect of temperature (15-25°C), nutrient availability, and salinity (0-12‰) on cell adhesion.
Main Results:
- Enterobacter cloacae produced extensive capsules under laboratory conditions.
- Cell adhesion to surfaces was consistent across aerobic and anaerobic conditions.
- Temperature and organic nutrient availability showed minimal impact on adherent cell density.
- Adherent cell density significantly decreased by 76% as salinity increased from 0 to 12‰.
Conclusions:
- Enterobacter cloacae exhibits robust surface colonization capabilities.
- Salinity is a critical environmental factor influencing the adhesion and sessile lifestyle of Enterobacter cloacae.
- The findings suggest Enterobacter cloacae is well-adapted for survival in brackish water sediments of temperate coastal regions.
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