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Physical methods for characterization of microbial cell surfaces

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Summary

There are different concepts for explaining the adsorption of microorganisms to solid surfaces: the DLVO theory and the surface free energy. Basic aspects of both theories are discussed. Established methods for determining the surface properties of microbial cells are reviewed: Electrophoretic mobility, colloid titration, electrostatic interaction chromatography, bacterial adherence to hydrocarbons, partitioning in an aqueous two-phase system, hydrophobic interaction chromatography, contact angle measurement and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. They are discussed and classified according to their potential for the correlation of cell surface characteristics and adsorption behavior.

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  1. GBF, Gesellschaft für Biotechnologische Forschung, Mascheroder Wew 1, D-3300, Braunschweig, Germany

    C. Krekeler, H. Ziehr & J. Klein

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Krekeler, C., Ziehr, H. & Klein, J. Physical methods for characterization of microbial cell surfaces. Experientia 45, 1047–1055 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01950157

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