Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 9, 2026
In vivo Optogenetic Stimulation of the Rodent Central Nervous System
Published on: January 15, 2015
Er:YAG Laser Irradiation Induces Behavioral Changes in V. harveyi
Idan Redenski1,2, Sharonit Sahar-Helft2, Adam Stabholz2
11 Biofilm Research Laboratory, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Institute of Dental Sciences, Hebrew University-Hadassah , Jerusalem, Israel .
Objective:
Laser technologies have many different applications in medical, agricultural, and industrial fields. Studies have shown several effects of laser energy on different bacterial species, in a wide variety of settings. Recent reports have found that one of the unique features of bacteria is their ability to communicate among themselves (quorum sensing). We sought to investigate whether low-energy laser irradiation affects bacterial behavior, which is regulated by quorum sensing.
Methods:
Laser irradiations were performed using Er:YAG laser (2940 nm wavelength) at output powers of 0.5, 1.5, 2.5, and 4 W on wild-type Vibrio harveyi. Bioluminescence, motility, and biofilm forming capability were assessed on the bacteria after irradiation.
Results:
After irradiation of bacteria, positive dose/output power dependencies were found in the bioluminescence omitted from tested experimental groups. Motility of colonies on semi-solid media was inhibited as irradiation output power was increased. However, after irradiation, biomass analysis of biofilm samples showed negligible differences between the irradiated samples and controls.
Conclusions:
Results indicate the impact of low-energy laser irradiation on bacterial behavior such as quorum sensing and motility, without affecting bacterial growth patterns.
