Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 26, 2026

Concurrent Quantification of Cellular and Extracellular Components of Biofilms
Published on: December 10, 2013
Extracellular DNA Provides Structural Integrity to a Micrococcus luteus Biofilm
Jamie T Blakeman1, Ana L Morales-García1,2, Joy Mukherjee3
1Department of Physics and Astronomy , The University of Sheffield , Hounsfield Road , Sheffield S3 7RH , U.K.
Abstract:
Force spectroscopy was used to show that extracellular DNA (eDNA) has a pre-eminent structural role in a biofilm. The adhesive behavior of extracellular polymeric substances to poly(ethylene terephthalate), a model hydrophobic surface, was measured in response to their degradation by hydrolytic enzymes known for their biofilm dispersion potential: DNaseI, protease, cellulase, and mannanase. Only treatment with DNaseI significantly decreased the adhesive force of the model bacterium Micrococcus luteus with the surface, and furthermore this treatment almost completely eliminated any components of the biofilm maintaining the adhesion, establishing a key structural role for eDNA.
Related Concept Videos
The Extracellular Matrix
Biofilms
DNA Helicases
Viral Structure
Structural Protein Function
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, is found throughout the body. In connective tissue, such as skin, ligaments, and tendons, it provides tensile strength and elasticity. In bones and teeth, it mineralizes to...
DNA Replication
Replication in Prokaryotes
DNA replication...

