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Related Experiment Videos

The Bacteroides glycocalyx as visualized by differential interference contrast microscopy.

D W Lambe1, K P Ferguson, D A Ferguson

  • 1Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City 37614.

Canadian Journal of Microbiology
|November 1, 1988
PubMed
Summary

Differential interference contrast microscopy revealed a prominent glycocalyx in all examined Bacteroides strains. This complex extracellular matrix, including capsules and connecting strands, was consistently observed regardless of culture method.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Microscopy

Background:

  • The bacterial glycocalyx is a crucial extracellular matrix involved in various cellular processes.
  • Bacteroides species are significant members of the gut microbiota, and understanding their surface structures is important.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate and characterize the glycocalyx of multiple Bacteroides species.
  • To compare the efficacy of differential interference contrast microscopy (DICM) versus phase-contrast microscopy (PCM) for visualizing the bacterial glycocalyx.

Main Methods:

  • Culturing of eight Bacteroides strains (six species) in broth and on agar.
  • Preparation of wet mounts with India ink for microscopy.
  • Observation using both phase-contrast microscopy and differential interference contrast microscopy.

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Main Results:

  • All examined Bacteroides strains exhibited a discernible glycocalyx using DICM.
  • The glycocalyx manifested as capsules, connecting strands, detached slime, and enmeshing masses.
  • Comparable glycocalyx amounts were observed in bacteria grown on plates versus in broth.
  • Serial subculturing did not reduce the observed glycocalyx.
  • DICM provided superior visualization of the Bacteroides glycocalyx compared to PCM.

Conclusions:

  • Bacteroides species consistently possess a complex glycocalyx structure.
  • Differential interference contrast microscopy is a highly effective technique for studying the bacterial glycocalyx in wet preparations.
  • The bacterial glycocalyx is a stable structure, not diminished by standard culture transfers.