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Staphylococcus epidermidis originating from titanium implants infects surrounding tissue and immune cells
Martijn Riool1, Leonie de Boer1, Valery Jaspers1
1Department of Medical Microbiology, Center of Infection and Immunity Amsterdam (CINIMA), Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 15, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Acta Biomaterialia
|August 26, 2014
Summary
Bacteria on biomedical devices can infect surrounding tissue. This study shows bacteria from implants, whether free-floating or in biofilms, can spread to adjacent tissues, highlighting the need for dual antimicrobial strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Biomedical device failure is often caused by infection.
- Bacteria can form biofilms on implants and infect surrounding tissues.
- The origin of bacteria in surrounding tissues is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the fate of Staphylococcus epidermidis on implants.
- To determine if implant-associated bacteria can infect surrounding tissues.
- To differentiate bacteria from biofilms versus planktonic cells.
Main Methods:
- Developed a green fluorescent Staphylococcus epidermidis strain for tracking.
- Inoculated titanium implants with planktonic or biofilm S. epidermidis in mice.
- Retrieved bacteria from implants and surrounding tissues after 4 days.
- Performed histology to observe bacteria and host cell interactions.
Main Results:
- S. epidermidis was recovered from both implants and surrounding tissues in all experimental groups.
- Histology revealed bacteria within surrounding tissues, co-localizing with macrophages.
- Adherent bacteria and biofilm bacteria both contributed to tissue infection.
Conclusions:
- Bacteria on implants, whether planktonic or in biofilms, can cause infection in surrounding tissues.
- Antimicrobial strategies must target both biofilm formation and tissue colonization.
- Understanding bacterial dissemination is crucial for preventing biomaterial-associated infections.
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